<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22DEVI%20SHASTRI%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By DEVI SHASTRI AP Health Writer</a>

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-mmr-vaccine-texas-rfk-ff8e744b19ead87698d7217de02814ee">Measles outbreaks</a>&nbsp;in West Texas and New Mexico are now up to nearly 300 cases, and two unvaccinated people have died from measles-related causes.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-new-mexico-mmr-outbreak-vaccines-408371700e3ab548777bf0354e586549">Measles</a>&nbsp;is caused by a highly contagious virus that's airborne and spreads easily when an infected person breathes, sneezes or coughs. It is preventable through vaccines, and has been considered eliminated from the U.S. since 2000.

As of Friday, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said its count of confirmed measles cases in the U.S. surpassed 2024. Here's what else you&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-texas-rfk-vaccines-8cf4641b04731c713edb524ca943490c">need to know about measles in the U.S.</a>

How many measles cases are there in Texas and New Mexico?

Texas state health officials said Friday there were 36 new cases of measles since Tuesday, bringing Texas' total to 259. Five more people were hospitalized, for a total of 34. The outbreak has spread to two new counties: Cochran in West Texas with six and Lamar in the northeast part of the state with four.

New Mexico health officials announced two new cases Friday, bringing the state’s total to 35. Most of the cases are in Lea County, where two people are hospitalized. Eddy County has two cases.

Oklahoma's state health department reported two probable cases of measles Tuesday, saying they are “associated” with the West Texas and New Mexico outbreaks.

A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-west-texas-death-rfk-41adc66641e4a56ce2b2677480031ab9">school-age child died of measles in Texas</a>&nbsp;last month, and New Mexico reported its first&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-death-new-mexico-texas-outbreak-b9aef6fdd51fbb4ebd1ce9ce28e33299">measles-related death in an adult</a>&nbsp;last week.

Where else is measles showing up in the U.S.?

Measles cases have been reported in Alaska, California, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines an outbreak as three or more related cases — and there have been&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/data-research/">three clusters</a>&nbsp;that qualified as outbreaks in 2025.

In the U.S., cases and outbreaks are generally traced to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-asia-measles-rates-unicef-who-report-2f888732cc297090238956986fd89cc4">someone who caught the disease abroad</a>. It can then spread, especially in communities with low vaccination rates. In 2019, the U.S. saw 1,274 cases and almost lost its status of having eliminated measles.

The best way to avoid measles is to get the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccine-safety/vaccines/mmr.html">measles, mumps and rubella</a>&nbsp;(MMR) vaccine. The first shot is recommended for children between 12 and 15 months old and the second between 4 and 6 years old.

People at high risk for infection who got the shots many years ago may want to consider getting a booster if they live in an area with an outbreak, said Scott Weaver with the Global Virus Network, an international coalition. Those may include family members living with someone who has measles or those especially vulnerable to respiratory diseases because of underlying medical conditions.

Adults with “presumptive evidence of immunity” generally don’t need measles shots now, the CDC said. Criteria include written documentation of adequate vaccination earlier in life, lab confirmation of past infection or being born before 1957, when most people were likely to be infected naturally.

A doctor can order a lab test called an MMR titer to check your levels of measles antibodies, but health experts don't always recommend this route and insurance coverage can vary.

Getting another MMR shot is harmless if there are concerns about waning immunity, the CDC says.

People who have documentation of receiving a live measles vaccine in the 1960s don’t need to be revaccinated, but people who were immunized before 1968 with an ineffective measles vaccine made from “killed” virus should be revaccinated with at least one dose, the agency said. That also includes people who don’t know which type they got.

Measles first infects the respiratory tract, then spreads throughout the body, causing a high fever, runny nose, cough, red, watery eyes and a rash.

The rash generally appears three to five days after the first symptoms, beginning as flat red spots on the face and then spreading downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs and feet. When the rash appears, the fever may spike over 104 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the CDC.

Most kids will recover from measles, but infection can lead to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/signs-symptoms/index.html">dangerous complications</a>&nbsp;such as pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling and death.

There’s no specific treatment for measles, so doctors generally try to alleviate symptoms, prevent complications and keep patients comfortable.

In communities with high vaccination rates — above 95% — diseases like measles have a harder time spreading through communities. This is called “herd immunity.”

But childhood vaccination rates have declined nationwide since the pandemic and more parents are claiming religious or personal conscience waivers to exempt their kids from required shots.

The U.S. saw&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-cdc-outbreak-chicago-mmr-vaccine-7ecdfef41e6dbd659c7ac8b80d5de38f">a rise in measles cases in 2024</a>, including an outbreak in Chicago that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-chicago-migrant-shelter-cdc-e58517c830f73e42266d45d45983c12b">sickened more than 60.</a>

AP Science Writer Laura Ungar contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741383047634.png" alt="One of the protestors at the"Stand Up for Science" Rally at Lincoln Memorial in Washington on March 7-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>One of the protestors at the"Stand Up for Science" Rally at Lincoln Memorial in Washington on March 7-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22DEVI%20SHASTRI%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By DEVI SHASTRI AP Health Writer</a><a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-mmr-vaccine-texas-rfk-ff8e744b19ead87698d7217de02814ee">Measles outbreaks</a>&nbsp;in West Texas and New Mexico are now up to nearly 300 cases, and two unvaccinated people have died from measles-related causes.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-new-mexico-mmr-outbreak-vaccines-408371700e3ab548777bf0354e586549">Measles</a>&nbsp;is caused by a highly contagious virus that's airborne and spreads easily when an infected person breathes, sneezes or coughs. It is preventable through vaccines, and has been considered eliminated from the U.S. since 2000.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment &amp; Stevens County Health Department have confirmed one positive case of measles in Stevens County. Individuals who may have been exposed are being identified. This is the first case in Kansas since 2018. Learn more:… <a href="https://t.co/bkpEOn51JZ">pic.twitter.com/bkpEOn51JZ</a>&mdash; KDHE (@KDHE) <a href="https://twitter.com/KDHE/status/1900542483823530023?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>As of Friday, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said its count of confirmed measles cases in the U.S. surpassed 2024. Here's what else you&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-texas-rfk-vaccines-8cf4641b04731c713edb524ca943490c">need to know about measles in the U.S.</a><h2>How many measles cases are there in Texas and New Mexico?</h2>Texas state health officials said Friday there were 36 new cases of measles since Tuesday, bringing Texas' total to 259. Five more people were hospitalized, for a total of 34. The outbreak has spread to two new counties: Cochran in West Texas with six and Lamar in the northeast part of the state with four.New Mexico health officials announced two new cases Friday, bringing the state’s total to 35. Most of the cases are in Lea County, where two people are hospitalized. Eddy County has two cases.Oklahoma's state health department reported two probable cases of measles Tuesday, saying they are “associated” with the West Texas and New Mexico outbreaks.A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-west-texas-death-rfk-41adc66641e4a56ce2b2677480031ab9">school-age child died of measles in Texas</a>&nbsp;last month, and New Mexico reported its first&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-death-new-mexico-texas-outbreak-b9aef6fdd51fbb4ebd1ce9ce28e33299">measles-related death in an adult</a>&nbsp;last week.<h2>Where else is measles showing up in the U.S.?</h2>Measles cases have been reported in Alaska, California, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington.The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines an outbreak as three or more related cases — and there have been&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/data-research/">three clusters</a>&nbsp;that qualified as outbreaks in 2025.In the U.S., cases and outbreaks are generally traced to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-asia-measles-rates-unicef-who-report-2f888732cc297090238956986fd89cc4">someone who caught the disease abroad</a>. It can then spread, especially in communities with low vaccination rates. In 2019, the U.S. saw 1,274 cases and almost lost its status of having eliminated measles.<h2>Do you need an MMR booster?</h2>The best way to avoid measles is to get the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccine-safety/vaccines/mmr.html">measles, mumps and rubella</a>&nbsp;(MMR) vaccine. The first shot is recommended for children between 12 and 15 months old and the second between 4 and 6 years old.People at high risk for infection who got the shots many years ago may want to consider getting a booster if they live in an area with an outbreak, said Scott Weaver with the Global Virus Network, an international coalition. Those may include family members living with someone who has measles or those especially vulnerable to respiratory diseases because of underlying medical conditions.Adults with “presumptive evidence of immunity” generally don’t need measles shots now, the CDC said. Criteria include written documentation of adequate vaccination earlier in life, lab confirmation of past infection or being born before 1957, when most people were likely to be infected naturally.A doctor can order a lab test called an MMR titer to check your levels of measles antibodies, but health experts don't always recommend this route and insurance coverage can vary.Getting another MMR shot is harmless if there are concerns about waning immunity, the CDC says.People who have documentation of receiving a live measles vaccine in the 1960s don’t need to be revaccinated, but people who were immunized before 1968 with an ineffective measles vaccine made from “killed” virus should be revaccinated with at least one dose, the agency said. That also includes people who don’t know which type they got.<h2>What are the symptoms of measles?</h2>Measles first infects the respiratory tract, then spreads throughout the body, causing a high fever, runny nose, cough, red, watery eyes and a rash.The rash generally appears three to five days after the first symptoms, beginning as flat red spots on the face and then spreading downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs and feet. When the rash appears, the fever may spike over 104 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the CDC.Most kids will recover from measles, but infection can lead to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/signs-symptoms/index.html">dangerous complications</a>&nbsp;such as pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling and death.<h2>How can you treat measles?</h2>There’s no specific treatment for measles, so doctors generally try to alleviate symptoms, prevent complications and keep patients comfortable.<h2>Why do vaccination rates matter?</h2>In communities with high vaccination rates — above 95% — diseases like measles have a harder time spreading through communities. This is called “herd immunity.”But childhood vaccination rates have declined nationwide since the pandemic and more parents are claiming religious or personal conscience waivers to exempt their kids from required shots.The U.S. saw&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-cdc-outbreak-chicago-mmr-vaccine-7ecdfef41e6dbd659c7ac8b80d5de38f">a rise in measles cases in 2024</a>, including an outbreak in Chicago that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-chicago-migrant-shelter-cdc-e58517c830f73e42266d45d45983c12b">sickened more than 60.</a>___AP Science Writer Laura Ungar contributed to this report.___

Measles outbreak grows; cases reported in more states

WASHINGTON (AP) — More than 50 universities are being investigated for alleged racial discrimination as part of President Donald Trump’s campaign to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dei-critical-race-theory-colleges-diversity-db8317ad37931558dd5a396cf5ab3d42">end diversity, equity and inclusion programs</a>&nbsp;that his officials say exclude white and Asian American students.

<a href="https://www.ed.gov/about/news/press-release/office-civil-rights-initiates-title-vi-investigations-institutions-of-higher-education-0" target="_blank">View the list of universities, including the University of Kansas, under investigation</a>

The Education Department announced the new investigations Friday, one month after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-dei-schools-dear-colleague-6cca8440afa62689991d373cc4903a4c">issuing a memo</a>&nbsp;warning America’s schools and colleges that they could lose federal money over “race-based preferences” in admissions, scholarships or any aspect of student life.

“Students must be assessed according to merit and accomplishment, not prejudged by the color of their skin,” Education Secretary Linda McMahon said in a statement. “We will not yield on this commitment.”

Most of the new inquiries are focused on colleges’ partnerships with the PhD Project, a nonprofit that helps students from underrepresented groups get degrees in business with the goal of diversifying the business world.

Department officials said that the group limits eligibility based on race and that colleges that partner with it are “engaging in race-exclusionary practices in their graduate programs.”

The group of 45 colleges facing scrutiny over ties to the PhD Project include major public universities such as Arizona State, Ohio State and Rutgers, along with prestigious private schools like Yale, Cornell, Duke and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

A statement from Ohio State said the university “does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity or any other protected class, and our PhD programs are open to all qualified applicants.”

A message sent to the PhD Project was not immediately returned.

Six other colleges are being investigated for awarding “impermissible race-based scholarships,” the department said, and another is accused of running a program that segregates students on the basis of race.

The Education Department said those schools are: Grand Valley State University, Ithaca College, the New England College of Optometry, the University of Alabama, the University of Minnesota, the University of South Florida and the University of Oklahoma at Tulsa.

An initial press release from the Education Department erroneously identified the University of Tulsa as one of the schools under investigation.

The Feb. 14 memo from Trump's Republican administration was a sweeping expansion of a 2023 Supreme Court decision that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-affirmative-action-college-race-f83d6318017ec9b9029b12ee2256e744">barred colleges</a>&nbsp;from using race as a factor in admissions.

That decision focused on admissions policies at Harvard and the University of North Carolina, but the Education Department said it will interpret the decision to forbid race-based policies in any aspect of education, both in K-12 schools and higher education.

In the memo, Craig Trainor, acting assistant secretary for civil rights, had said schools’ and colleges' diversity, equity and inclusion efforts have been “smuggling racial stereotypes and explicit race-consciousness into everyday training, programming and discipline."

The memo is being challenged in federal lawsuits from the nation’s two largest teachers’ unions. The suits say the memo is too vague and violates the free speech rights of educators.

The Associated Press’ education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. The AP is solely responsible for all content. Find the AP’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ap.org/about/news-values-and-principles/">standards</a>&nbsp;for working with philanthropies, a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ap.org/about/supporting-ap/">list</a>&nbsp;of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.

WASHINGTON (AP) — More than 50 universities are being investigated for alleged racial discrimination as part of President Donald Trump’s campaign to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dei-critical-race-theory-colleges-diversity-db8317ad37931558dd5a396cf5ab3d42">end diversity, equity and inclusion programs</a>&nbsp;that his officials say exclude white and Asian American students.<a href="https://www.ed.gov/about/news/press-release/office-civil-rights-initiates-title-vi-investigations-institutions-of-higher-education-0" target="_blank">View the list of universities, including the University of Kansas, under investigation</a>The Education Department announced the new investigations Friday, one month after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-dei-schools-dear-colleague-6cca8440afa62689991d373cc4903a4c">issuing a memo</a>&nbsp;warning America’s schools and colleges that they could lose federal money over “race-based preferences” in admissions, scholarships or any aspect of student life.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741964952570.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“Students must be assessed according to merit and accomplishment, not prejudged by the color of their skin,” Education Secretary Linda McMahon said in a statement. “We will not yield on this commitment.”Most of the new inquiries are focused on colleges’ partnerships with the PhD Project, a nonprofit that helps students from underrepresented groups get degrees in business with the goal of diversifying the business world.Department officials said that the group limits eligibility based on race and that colleges that partner with it are “engaging in race-exclusionary practices in their graduate programs.”The group of 45 colleges facing scrutiny over ties to the PhD Project include major public universities such as Arizona State, Ohio State and Rutgers, along with prestigious private schools like Yale, Cornell, Duke and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.A statement from Ohio State said the university “does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity or any other protected class, and our PhD programs are open to all qualified applicants.”A message sent to the PhD Project was not immediately returned.Six other colleges are being investigated for awarding “impermissible race-based scholarships,” the department said, and another is accused of running a program that segregates students on the basis of race.The Education Department said those schools are: Grand Valley State University, Ithaca College, the New England College of Optometry, the University of Alabama, the University of Minnesota, the University of South Florida and the University of Oklahoma at Tulsa.An initial press release from the Education Department erroneously identified the University of Tulsa as one of the schools under investigation.The Feb. 14 memo from Trump's Republican administration was a sweeping expansion of a 2023 Supreme Court decision that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-affirmative-action-college-race-f83d6318017ec9b9029b12ee2256e744">barred colleges</a>&nbsp;from using race as a factor in admissions.That decision focused on admissions policies at Harvard and the University of North Carolina, but the Education Department said it will interpret the decision to forbid race-based policies in any aspect of education, both in K-12 schools and higher education.In the memo, Craig Trainor, acting assistant secretary for civil rights, had said schools’ and colleges' diversity, equity and inclusion efforts have been “smuggling racial stereotypes and explicit race-consciousness into everyday training, programming and discipline."The memo is being challenged in federal lawsuits from the nation’s two largest teachers’ unions. The suits say the memo is too vague and violates the free speech rights of educators.___The Associated Press’ education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. The AP is solely responsible for all content. Find the AP’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ap.org/about/news-values-and-principles/">standards</a>&nbsp;for working with philanthropies, a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ap.org/about/supporting-ap/">list</a>&nbsp;of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.___

See the list: Schools including KU face investigation over DEI programs

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A wanted Kansas suspect captured at a motel in Colorado in July made another court appearance Thursday.

During the arraignment hearing, Judge David Kaufman, scheduled a trial for Ryan Antalek, 40, Wichita to begin on June 16, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Antalek is charged with criminal discharge of a firearm, aggravated assault, fleeing or attempting to elude an officer, stalking, two counts of criminal threat, and criminal damage to property, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

In July of 2024, the Pueblo County Colorado Sheriff’s communication center received a tip that Antalek&nbsp; was possibly staying at the Days Inn in Colorado City, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.

Kansas authorities had been searching for Antalek on the warrant and had heightened the search after learning he had made repeated homicidal statements. Antalek also was noted to have a criminal history involving weapons and known to carry firearms.

Sheriff's detectives and U.S. Marshals responded to the Days Inn at about 12:30 a.m. and located in the parking lot a 2019 Black Chevy Colorado truck Antalek was reportedly driving. After confirming that Antalek was in the hotel, detectives, with assistance from the Marshals, devised a plan and were able to get him to leave his hotel room where he was taken into custody without incident.

Antalek was arrested on a no bond fugitive of justice warrant from Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719500728222.png" alt="Antalek photo Pueblo Co. Colorado" />
 <figcaption>Antalek photo Pueblo Co. Colorado</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A wanted Kansas suspect captured at a motel in Colorado in July made another court appearance Thursday.During the arraignment hearing, Judge David Kaufman, scheduled a trial for Ryan Antalek, 40, Wichita to begin on June 16, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.Antalek is charged with criminal discharge of a firearm, aggravated assault, fleeing or attempting to elude an officer, stalking, two counts of criminal threat, and criminal damage to property, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.In July of 2024, the Pueblo County Colorado Sheriff’s communication center received a tip that Antalek&nbsp; was possibly staying at the Days Inn in Colorado City, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.Kansas authorities had been searching for Antalek on the warrant and had heightened the search after learning he had made repeated homicidal statements. Antalek also was noted to have a criminal history involving weapons and known to carry firearms.Sheriff's detectives and U.S. Marshals responded to the Days Inn at about 12:30 a.m. and located in the parking lot a 2019 Black Chevy Colorado truck Antalek was reportedly driving. After confirming that Antalek was in the hotel, detectives, with assistance from the Marshals, devised a plan and were able to get him to leave his hotel room where he was taken into custody without incident.Antalek was arrested on a no bond fugitive of justice warrant from Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Judge sets trial date for Kansas assault suspect captured in Colorado

MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan.&nbsp;– The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will headline McConnell’s 2026 Frontiers in Flight Open House and Air Show, now scheduled for Oct. 17-18, 2026, according to a statement from the base.

The Thunderbirds are the Air Force’s premier aerial demonstration team, performing precision aerial maneuvers displaying Air Force high-performance aircraft to people worldwide. The show involves a mix of precision formation flying and intense solo routines demonstrating the capabilities of Air Force pilots and the F-16 Fighting Falcon.

The Thunderbirds last performed above the Wichita skies in September 2022.

Over 65,000 visitors arrived on day one of McConnell’s last air show on Aug. 24, 2024. The show never continued its second day after an unexpected wet microburst brought 54 mph wind gusts and torrential rain, leaving debris strewn around the flightline and air acts unable to operate safely.

The base looks forward to milder October weather and a historically lower chance of precipitation during next year’s show.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741967975433.png" alt="U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16 Fighting Falcons flies under a KC-135A, over the United States Aug. 16, 2024. The F-16 has a wingspan of 32 feet 8 inches. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Paula Arce)" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16 Fighting Falcons flies under a KC-135A, over the United States Aug. 16, 2024. The F-16 has a wingspan of 32 feet 8 inches. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Paula Arce)</figcaption>
 </figure>MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan.&nbsp;– The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will headline McConnell’s 2026 Frontiers in Flight Open House and Air Show, now scheduled for Oct. 17-18, 2026, according to a statement from the base.The Thunderbirds are the Air Force’s premier aerial demonstration team, performing precision aerial maneuvers displaying Air Force high-performance aircraft to people worldwide. The show involves a mix of precision formation flying and intense solo routines demonstrating the capabilities of Air Force pilots and the F-16 Fighting Falcon.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741968104926.png" alt="The United States Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron "Thunderbirds" perform air shows across the United States from March-November, 2023. During the 2023 season, the Thunderbirds performed 63 demonstrations across 32 locations as they celebrated their 70th anniversary. (U.S. Air Force video by Staff Sgt. Dakota Carter)" />
 <figcaption>The United States Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron "Thunderbirds" perform air shows across the United States from March-November, 2023. During the 2023 season, the Thunderbirds performed 63 demonstrations across 32 locations as they celebrated their 70th anniversary. (U.S. Air Force video by Staff Sgt. Dakota Carter)</figcaption>
 </figure>The Thunderbirds last performed above the Wichita skies in September 2022.Over 65,000 visitors arrived on day one of McConnell’s last air show on Aug. 24, 2024. The show never continued its second day after an unexpected wet microburst brought 54 mph wind gusts and torrential rain, leaving debris strewn around the flightline and air acts unable to operate safely.The base looks forward to milder October weather and a historically lower chance of precipitation during next year’s show.

U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds set to return to Kansas air show

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating the theft of a vending machine in Manhattan.

Just before 9p.m. Thursday, officers filed a report of criminal deprivation of property from the Blue Hills Shopping Center in the 2300 block of Tuttle Creek Blvd., according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 32-year-old woman reported a suspect took a large gray vending machine she owned that was in a breezeway at the shopping center. Total estimated loss associated with this report is $11,221. The RCPD had no additional details.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating the theft of a vending machine in Manhattan.Just before 9p.m. Thursday, officers filed a report of criminal deprivation of property from the Blue Hills Shopping Center in the 2300 block of Tuttle Creek Blvd., according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 32-year-old woman reported a suspect took a large gray vending machine she owned that was in a breezeway at the shopping center. Total estimated loss associated with this report is $11,221. The RCPD had no additional details.

Police: Suspect took vending machine from Kan. shopping center

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas teen accused in a deadly hit-and run accident is expected to appear before Judge Chrystal Krier on Friday for a preliminary hearing, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Peyton Allart, 19, Wichita, was charged with leaving the scene of a&nbsp;crash that killed 28-year-old Jaz Brooks.&nbsp; She is also accused of transporting an open container of alcohol and purchase or consumption of alcohol by a minor, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Just after 3a.m. June 23, police responded to a vehicule collision at the intersection of Central and Mclean in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.

First responders discovered a dark-colored Saturn involved in the incident. The passenger, identified as Brooks, was found trapped inside the vehicle and pronounced deceased. The driver of the Saturn received an evaluation by EMS for non-lifethreatening injuries at the scene.

Preliminary investigations revealed that a black Ford F-150 had collided with the Saturn on its passenger side and fled prior to law enforcement's arrival. Officers successfully located the suspect identified as Allart and the vehicle several hours later.&nbsp; &nbsp; She is no longer in custody after meeting the bond requirements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719242864860.png" alt="Allart photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Allart photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas teen accused in a deadly hit-and run accident is expected to appear before Judge Chrystal Krier on Friday for a preliminary hearing, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.Peyton Allart, 19, Wichita, was charged with leaving the scene of a&nbsp;crash that killed 28-year-old Jaz Brooks.&nbsp; She is also accused of transporting an open container of alcohol and purchase or consumption of alcohol by a minor, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp;&nbsp;Just after 3a.m. June 23, police responded to a vehicule collision at the intersection of Central and Mclean in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.First responders discovered a dark-colored Saturn involved in the incident. The passenger, identified as Brooks, was found trapped inside the vehicle and pronounced deceased. The driver of the Saturn received an evaluation by EMS for non-lifethreatening injuries at the scene.Preliminary investigations revealed that a black Ford F-150 had collided with the Saturn on its passenger side and fled prior to law enforcement's arrival. Officers successfully located the suspect identified as Allart and the vehicle several hours later.&nbsp; &nbsp; She is no longer in custody after meeting the bond requirements.

Kansas teen due back in court for deadly hit-and-run crash

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Two federal judges handed down orders requiring President Donald Trump's administration to rehire thousands, if not tens of thousands, of probationary workers let go in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-elon-musk-federal-workers-layoffs-d295d4bb2cdd5023c27d9cb03754e81b">mass firings</a>&nbsp;across multiple agencies Thursday, slowing down for now the president's dramatic downsizing of the federal government.

Both judges separately found legal problems with the way the mass terminations were carried out and ordered the employees at least temporarily brought back on the job.

The Trump administration has already appealed the first ruling. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt cast it as an attempt to encroach on the president's power to hire and fire employees. “The Trump Administration will immediately fight back against this absurd and unconstitutional order," she said in a statement.

In San Francisco, U.S. District Judge William Alsup found Thursday morning that terminations across six agencies were directed by the Office of Personnel Management and an acting director, Charles Ezell, who lacked the authority to do so.

In Baltimore, U.S. District Judge James Bredar found that the administration ignored laws set out for large-scale layoffs. Bredar, who was appointed by President Barack Obama, ordered the firings halted for at least two weeks and the workforce returned to the status quo before the layoffs began.

He sided with nearly two dozen states that filed a lawsuit alleging the mass firings are illegal and already having an impact on state governments as they try to help the suddenly jobless.

At least 24,000 probationary employees have been terminated since Trump took office, the lawsuit alleges, though the government has not confirmed that number.

The Trump administration argues that the states have no right to try and influence the federal government’s relationship with its own workers. Justice Department attorneys argued the firings were for performance issues, not large-scale layoffs subject to specific regulations.

The White House did not immediately return an email seeking comment on Bredar's ruling.

Probationary workers have been targeted for layoffs across the federal government because they’re usually new to the job and lack full civil service protection. Multiple lawsuits have been filed over the mass firings.

Alsup's order tells the departments of Veterans Affairs, Agriculture, Defense, Energy, the Interior and the Treasury to immediately offer job reinstatement to employees terminated on or about Feb. 13 and 14. He also directed the departments to report back within seven days with a list of probationary employees and an explanation of how the agencies complied with his order as to each person.

The temporary restraining order came in a lawsuit filed by a coalition of labor unions and organizations as the Republican administration moves to reduce&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/doge-firings-layoffs-federal-government-workers-musk-d33cdd7872d64d2bdd8fe70c28652654">the federal workforce</a>.

“These mass-firings of federal workers were not just an attack on government agencies and their ability to function, they were also a direct assault on public lands, wildlife, and the rule of law,” said Erik Molvar, executive director of Western Watersheds Project, one of the plaintiffs.

Alsup expressed frustration with what he called the government's attempt to sidestep laws and regulations governing a reduction in its workforce — which it is allowed to do — by firing probationary workers who lack protections and cannot appeal.

He was appalled that employees were told they were being fired for poor performance despite receiving glowing evaluations just months earlier.

“It is sad, a sad day, when our government would fire some good employee and say it was based on performance when they know good and well that’s a lie," he said. “That should not have been done in our country.”

Lawyers for the government maintain the mass firings were lawful because individual agencies reviewed and determined whether employees on probation were fit for continued employment.

But Alsup, who was appointed by President Bill Clinton, a Democrat, has found that difficult to believe. He planned to hold an evidentiary hearing Thursday, but Ezell, the OPM acting director, did not appear to testify in court or even sit for a deposition, and the government retracted his written testimony.

“I know how we get at the truth, and you’re not helping me get at the truth,” Alsup said to Kelsey Helland, an assistant U.S. attorney.

There are an estimated 200,000 probationary workers across federal agencies. They include entry-level employees but also workers who recently received a promotion.

About 15,000 are employed in California, providing services ranging from fire prevention to veterans’ care, according to the lawsuit filed by the coalition of labor unions and nonprofit organizations that represent parks, veterans and small businesses.

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Two federal judges handed down orders requiring President Donald Trump's administration to rehire thousands, if not tens of thousands, of probationary workers let go in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-elon-musk-federal-workers-layoffs-d295d4bb2cdd5023c27d9cb03754e81b">mass firings</a>&nbsp;across multiple agencies Thursday, slowing down for now the president's dramatic downsizing of the federal government.Both judges separately found legal problems with the way the mass terminations were carried out and ordered the employees at least temporarily brought back on the job.The Trump administration has already appealed the first ruling. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt cast it as an attempt to encroach on the president's power to hire and fire employees. “The Trump Administration will immediately fight back against this absurd and unconstitutional order," she said in a statement.In San Francisco, U.S. District Judge William Alsup found Thursday morning that terminations across six agencies were directed by the Office of Personnel Management and an acting director, Charles Ezell, who lacked the authority to do so.In Baltimore, U.S. District Judge James Bredar found that the administration ignored laws set out for large-scale layoffs. Bredar, who was appointed by President Barack Obama, ordered the firings halted for at least two weeks and the workforce returned to the status quo before the layoffs began.He sided with nearly two dozen states that filed a lawsuit alleging the mass firings are illegal and already having an impact on state governments as they try to help the suddenly jobless.At least 24,000 probationary employees have been terminated since Trump took office, the lawsuit alleges, though the government has not confirmed that number.The Trump administration argues that the states have no right to try and influence the federal government’s relationship with its own workers. Justice Department attorneys argued the firings were for performance issues, not large-scale layoffs subject to specific regulations.The White House did not immediately return an email seeking comment on Bredar's ruling.Probationary workers have been targeted for layoffs across the federal government because they’re usually new to the job and lack full civil service protection. Multiple lawsuits have been filed over the mass firings.Alsup's order tells the departments of Veterans Affairs, Agriculture, Defense, Energy, the Interior and the Treasury to immediately offer job reinstatement to employees terminated on or about Feb. 13 and 14. He also directed the departments to report back within seven days with a list of probationary employees and an explanation of how the agencies complied with his order as to each person.The temporary restraining order came in a lawsuit filed by a coalition of labor unions and organizations as the Republican administration moves to reduce&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/doge-firings-layoffs-federal-government-workers-musk-d33cdd7872d64d2bdd8fe70c28652654">the federal workforce</a>.“These mass-firings of federal workers were not just an attack on government agencies and their ability to function, they were also a direct assault on public lands, wildlife, and the rule of law,” said Erik Molvar, executive director of Western Watersheds Project, one of the plaintiffs.Alsup expressed frustration with what he called the government's attempt to sidestep laws and regulations governing a reduction in its workforce — which it is allowed to do — by firing probationary workers who lack protections and cannot appeal.He was appalled that employees were told they were being fired for poor performance despite receiving glowing evaluations just months earlier.“It is sad, a sad day, when our government would fire some good employee and say it was based on performance when they know good and well that’s a lie," he said. “That should not have been done in our country.”Lawyers for the government maintain the mass firings were lawful because individual agencies reviewed and determined whether employees on probation were fit for continued employment.But Alsup, who was appointed by President Bill Clinton, a Democrat, has found that difficult to believe. He planned to hold an evidentiary hearing Thursday, but Ezell, the OPM acting director, did not appear to testify in court or even sit for a deposition, and the government retracted his written testimony.“I know how we get at the truth, and you’re not helping me get at the truth,” Alsup said to Kelsey Helland, an assistant U.S. attorney.There are an estimated 200,000 probationary workers across federal agencies. They include entry-level employees but also workers who recently received a promotion.About 15,000 are employed in California, providing services ranging from fire prevention to veterans’ care, according to the lawsuit filed by the coalition of labor unions and nonprofit organizations that represent parks, veterans and small businesses.

2nd judge orders Trump admin. to rehire probationary workers let go 

KANSAS CITY —The Kansas City Missouri Police Department is attempting to locate 30-year-old&nbsp;Ashod L. Chavez.

He is a suspect involved in an aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer which occurred in the 3200 block of Brooklyn Avenue.

&nbsp;On February 27, police were called to a disturbance at Brooklyn Avenue and Linwood Boulevard, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez.&nbsp; Chavez is&nbsp; alleged to have attacked an officer at that time.

If you have information on the suspect, please contact the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS

Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson today announced felony charges against a Kansas City man in connection with an officer-involved shooting that occurred on Feb. 27.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2536/Afterhours-Complaint-Packet---Chavez-RED">Ash-Od Chavez faces</a>&nbsp;Unlawful Use of a Weapon and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm. *

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2537/CHAVEZ-PC-Statement_Redacted">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police were called to the 3200 block of Brooklyn Avenue on a disturbance. Based on body camera footage, officers attempted to make contact at the front of the residence. There was no response, but they heard a disturbance and walked to the backyard of a nearby residence. They observed the defendant holding a firearm and then raised it toward officers. A shooting occurred and officers retreated to find cover and wait for additional officers to arrive.

The residence was cleared, but police were unable to locate the defendant inside. He is still at large, and investigators are searching for him. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741898644288.png" alt="Chavez photo KCPD" />
 <figcaption>Chavez photo KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —The Kansas City Missouri Police Department is attempting to locate 30-year-old&nbsp;Ashod L. Chavez.He is a suspect involved in an aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer which occurred in the 3200 block of Brooklyn Avenue.&nbsp;On February 27, police were called to a disturbance at Brooklyn Avenue and Linwood Boulevard, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez.&nbsp; Chavez is&nbsp; alleged to have attacked an officer at that time.He is considered armed and dangerous.If you have information on the suspect, please contact the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPSJackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson today announced felony charges against a Kansas City man in connection with an officer-involved shooting that occurred on Feb. 27.<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2536/Afterhours-Complaint-Packet---Chavez-RED">Ash-Od Chavez faces</a>&nbsp;Unlawful Use of a Weapon and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm. *<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2537/CHAVEZ-PC-Statement_Redacted">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police were called to the 3200 block of Brooklyn Avenue on a disturbance. Based on body camera footage, officers attempted to make contact at the front of the residence. There was no response, but they heard a disturbance and walked to the backyard of a nearby residence. They observed the defendant holding a firearm and then raised it toward officers. A shooting occurred and officers retreated to find cover and wait for additional officers to arrive.The residence was cleared, but police were unable to locate the defendant inside. He is still at large, and investigators are searching for him. &nbsp;

Armed and dangerous: Man wanted for attack on KCPD officer

DENVER (AP) — Twelve people were taken to hospitals after an American Airlines plane landed at Denver International Airport on Thursday and caught fire, prompting slides to be deployed so passengers could evacuate quickly.

All of the people transported to hospitals had minor injuries, according to a post on the social platform X by Denver International Airport.

Flight 1006, which was headed from the Colorado Springs Airport to Dallas Fort Worth, diverted to Denver and landed safely around 5:15 p.m. after the crew reported engine vibrations, the Federal Aviation Administration said in a statement.

While taxiing to the gate, an engine on the Boeing 737-800 caught fire, the FAA added.

Photos and videos posted by news outlets showed passengers standing on a plane’s wing as smoke surrounded the aircraft. The FAA said passengers exited using the slides.

American said in a statement that the flight experienced an engine-related issue after taxiing to the gate. There was no immediate clarification on exactly when the plane caught fire.

The 172 passengers and six crew members were taken to the terminal, airline officials said.

“We thank our crew members, DEN team and first responders for their quick and decisive action with the safety of everyone on board and on the ground as the priority,” American said.

Firefighters put out the blaze by the evening, an airport spokesperson told media outlets.

The country has seen a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/plane-crash-safety-ntsb-faa-69bf8b4b3562670c7226d9d6f07925a0">recent spate of aviation disasters and close calls</a>&nbsp;stoking fears about air travel, though flying remains a very safe mode of transport.

Recent on-the-ground incidents have included a plane that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/delta-toronto-airport-minneapolis-4ab235ef49b2d3757c9bd5fd8c6606ce">crashed and flipped over</a>&nbsp;upon landing in Toronto and a Japan Airlines plane that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/seattle-airport-plane-f35b1d7198e4a65247aae5313edb5943">clipped a parked Delta plane</a>&nbsp;while it was taxiing at the Seattle airport.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741947436047.png" alt="Image from video by Justus Rainey via Associated Press" />
 <figcaption>Image from video by Justus Rainey via Associated Press</figcaption>
 </figure>DENVER (AP) — Twelve people were taken to hospitals after an American Airlines plane landed at Denver International Airport on Thursday and caught fire, prompting slides to be deployed so passengers could evacuate quickly.All of the people transported to hospitals had minor injuries, according to a post on the social platform X by Denver International Airport.Flight 1006, which was headed from the Colorado Springs Airport to Dallas Fort Worth, diverted to Denver and landed safely around 5:15 p.m. after the crew reported engine vibrations, the Federal Aviation Administration said in a statement.While taxiing to the gate, an engine on the Boeing 737-800 caught fire, the FAA added.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741948119853.png" alt="-Image from video by Justus Rainey via Associated Press" />
 <figcaption>-Image from video by Justus Rainey via Associated Press</figcaption>
 </figure>Photos and videos posted by news outlets showed passengers standing on a plane’s wing as smoke surrounded the aircraft. The FAA said passengers exited using the slides.American said in a statement that the flight experienced an engine-related issue after taxiing to the gate. There was no immediate clarification on exactly when the plane caught fire.The 172 passengers and six crew members were taken to the terminal, airline officials said.“We thank our crew members, DEN team and first responders for their quick and decisive action with the safety of everyone on board and on the ground as the priority,” American said.Firefighters put out the blaze by the evening, an airport spokesperson told media outlets.The FAA said it will investigate.The country has seen a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/plane-crash-safety-ntsb-faa-69bf8b4b3562670c7226d9d6f07925a0">recent spate of aviation disasters and close calls</a>&nbsp;stoking fears about air travel, though flying remains a very safe mode of transport.Recent on-the-ground incidents have included a plane that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/delta-toronto-airport-minneapolis-4ab235ef49b2d3757c9bd5fd8c6606ce">crashed and flipped over</a>&nbsp;upon landing in Toronto and a Japan Airlines plane that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/seattle-airport-plane-f35b1d7198e4a65247aae5313edb5943">clipped a parked Delta plane</a>&nbsp;while it was taxiing at the Seattle airport.

12 injured after American Airlines plane catches fire at Denver airport

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a high-speed chase.&nbsp;

Just after 9p.m. March 9, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received notification of a theft that had just occurred from a business in the 6800 block of SW 29th Street, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

 The adult female suspect fled the scene in a silver 2013 Kia Sorento heading westbound. A deputy with the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office attempted to conduct a traffic stop on the suspect vehicle near SW Indian Hills Road and SW 21st Street. The driver refused to stop and initiated a pursuit. The driver continued westbound on SW 21st Street and southbound on SW Auburn Road. 

A sheriff's office corporal performed a controlled vehicle intervention maneuver, which safely ended the pursuit near the 10400 block of SW Auburn Road.

The driver, Lynn A. Eldridge-Parker, 47, of Topeka, was taken into custody and transported by American Medical Response (AMR) to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

On Tuesday afternoon, Eldridge-Parker was transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of&nbsp;Possession of an opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, Theft &lt; $1,500 shoplifting, Flee or attempt to elude, Driving on left side where view is obstructed, Improper driving on laned roadway, Fail to yield to approaching vehicle when turning left,&nbsp;&nbsp;Failure to yield at a stop sign or yield sign, Speeding,&nbsp;&nbsp;Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs,&nbsp;&nbsp;Driving while a habitual violator, Driving while license suspended and Transporting an open container of liquor

Eldridge-Parker also had a Topeka Bench Warrant for her arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741795426928.png" alt="Eldridge-Parker photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Eldridge-Parker photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a high-speed chase.&nbsp;Just after 9p.m. March 9, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received notification of a theft that had just occurred from a business in the 6800 block of SW 29th Street, according to Deputy Abigail Christian. The adult female suspect fled the scene in a silver 2013 Kia Sorento heading westbound. A deputy with the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office attempted to conduct a traffic stop on the suspect vehicle near SW Indian Hills Road and SW 21st Street. The driver refused to stop and initiated a pursuit. The driver continued westbound on SW 21st Street and southbound on SW Auburn Road. A sheriff's office corporal performed a controlled vehicle intervention maneuver, which safely ended the pursuit near the 10400 block of SW Auburn Road.The driver, Lynn A. Eldridge-Parker, 47, of Topeka, was taken into custody and transported by American Medical Response (AMR) to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.On Tuesday afternoon, Eldridge-Parker was transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of&nbsp;Possession of an opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, Theft &lt; $1,500 shoplifting, Flee or attempt to elude, Driving on left side where view is obstructed, Improper driving on laned roadway, Fail to yield to approaching vehicle when turning left,&nbsp;&nbsp;Failure to yield at a stop sign or yield sign, Speeding,&nbsp;&nbsp;Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs,&nbsp;&nbsp;Driving while a habitual violator, Driving while license suspended and Transporting an open container of liquorEldridge-Parker also had a Topeka Bench Warrant for her arrest.

Kan. theft suspect moved from hospital to jail after high-speed chase

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate finds itself on Friday in a familiar position, working to avoid a partial&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/government-shutdown">government shutdown</a>&nbsp;with just hours to spare as Democrats confront two painful options: allowing passage of a bill they believe gives&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;vast discretion on spending decisions or voting no and letting a funding lapse ensue.

Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer gave members of his caucus days to vent their frustration about the options before them, but late Thursday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-trump-musk-doge-democrats-1aa4edf64103b0cf49dd26a0487ea9e6">made clear</a>&nbsp;he will not allow a government shutdown. His move gives Democrats room to side with Republicans and allow the continuing resolution, often described as a CR, to come up for a vote as soon as Friday.

A procedural vote Friday will provide a first test of whether the package has the 60 votes needed to advance, ahead of final voting likely later in the day. At least eight Democrats will need to join with Republicans to move the funding package forward.

“While the CR still is very bad, the potential for a shutdown has consequences for America that are much, much worse,” Schumer said.

Congress has been unable to pass the annual appropriations bills designed to fund the government, so they've resorted to passing short-term extensions instead. The legislation before the Senate marks&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-disaster-aid-debt-limit-trump-5a78b3c8c7aedc9384842fae83d78f5b">the third</a>&nbsp;such continuing resolution for the current fiscal year, now nearly half over.

The legislation would fund the federal government through the end of September. It would trim non-defense spending by about $13 billion from the previous year and increase defense spending by about $6 billion, which are marginal changes when talking about a topline spending level of nearly $1.7 trillion.

The Republican-led House&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-budget-funding-government-shutdown-e027a644af4152377b8cf99f6a91102f">passed</a>&nbsp;the spending bill on Tuesday and then adjourned. The move left senators with a decision to either take it or leave it. And while Democrats have been pushing for a vote on a fourth short-term extension, GOP leadership made clear that option was a non-starter.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., and others used their floor time Thursday to make the case that any blame for a shutdown would fall squarely on Democrats.

“Democrats need to decide if they're going to support funding legislation that came over from the House, or if they're going to shut down the government,” Thune said when opening the chamber.

Progressive groups urged Democratic lawmakers to insist on the 30-day extension and oppose the spending bill, saying “business as usual must not continue” while Trump and ally&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/elon-musk">Elon Musk</a>&nbsp;dismantle critical agencies and programs.

But Schumer said Trump would seize more power during a shutdown, because it would give the administration the ability to deem whole agencies, programs and personnel non-essential,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-trump-elon-musk-johnson-schumer-jeffries-cf75ae3c5f04207980cb96b286e70c09">furloughing staff</a>&nbsp;with no promise they would ever be rehired.

“A shutdown would give Donald Trump the keys to the city, the state and the country,” Schumer said.

Democrats have been critical of the funding levels in the bill. They note that both defense and non-defense spending is lower than what was agreed to nearly two years ago when Congress&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-debt-ceiling-budget-signing-f78a000d83cf85ffbaa2d08637844053">passed legislation</a>&nbsp;lifting the debt ceiling in return for spending restraints.

But they are even more worried about the discretion the bill gives the Trump administration on spending decisions. Many Democrats are referring to the measure as a “blank check” for Trump.

Spending bills typically come with specific funding directives for key programs, but hundreds of those directives fall away under the continuing resolution passed by the House. So the administration will have more leeway to decide where the money goes.

For example, a Democratic memo said the bill would allow the administration to steer money away from combating fentanyl and instead use it on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-biden-deportations-border-immigration-bcd2737e6f9b482ec500238c6caa4f35">mass deportation initiatives</a>. At the Army Corps of Engineers, funding levels for more than 1,000 projects to enhance commerce, flood control and healthy ecosystems would be determined by the administration rather than Congress.

Democrats also object to the treatment of the District of Columbia, as the bill effectively repeals its current year budget and forces it to go back to the prior year's levels, even though the district raises most of its own money. Mayor Muriel Bowser said the district would have to cut spending by $1.1 billion over just a few months.

Democrats also object to clawing back $20 billion in special IRS funding, on top of the $20 billion rescission approved the year before. The changes essentially cut in half the funding boost that Congress intended to give the agency through legislation passed by Democrats during Joe Biden's presidency.

The spending bill before the Senate is separate from the GOP effort to extend tax cuts for individuals passed in Trump's first term and to pay for those with spending cuts elsewhere in the budget.

That second package will be developed in the months ahead, but it was clearly part of the political calculus Democrats were considering as they argued against the six-month extension. Both efforts are designed to help the well-off at the expense of other Americans, they said.

“You're looking at a one-two punch, a very bad CR, then a reconciliation bill coming down, which will be the final kick in the teeth for the American people,” said Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt.

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., said the Democratic arguments were hypocritical because they were essentially calling for shutting down the government to protect the government.

“Democrats are fighting to withhold the paychecks of air traffic controllers, our troops, federal custodial staff,” Cotton said. “They can't be serious.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741881576765.png" alt="Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer during a Thursday news conference -image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer during a Thursday news conference -image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate finds itself on Friday in a familiar position, working to avoid a partial&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/government-shutdown">government shutdown</a>&nbsp;with just hours to spare as Democrats confront two painful options: allowing passage of a bill they believe gives&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;vast discretion on spending decisions or voting no and letting a funding lapse ensue.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">President Trump: &quot;If it shuts down, it&#39;s not the Republicans&#39; fault … I&#39;m hearing a lot of Democrats are going to vote for it and I hope they do.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/GIul4zxymS">pic.twitter.com/GIul4zxymS</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1900259346598031664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer gave members of his caucus days to vent their frustration about the options before them, but late Thursday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-trump-musk-doge-democrats-1aa4edf64103b0cf49dd26a0487ea9e6">made clear</a>&nbsp;he will not allow a government shutdown. His move gives Democrats room to side with Republicans and allow the continuing resolution, often described as a CR, to come up for a vote as soon as Friday.A procedural vote Friday will provide a first test of whether the package has the 60 votes needed to advance, ahead of final voting likely later in the day. At least eight Democrats will need to join with Republicans to move the funding package forward.“While the CR still is very bad, the potential for a shutdown has consequences for America that are much, much worse,” Schumer said.Congress has been unable to pass the annual appropriations bills designed to fund the government, so they've resorted to passing short-term extensions instead. The legislation before the Senate marks&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-disaster-aid-debt-limit-trump-5a78b3c8c7aedc9384842fae83d78f5b">the third</a>&nbsp;such continuing resolution for the current fiscal year, now nearly half over.The legislation would fund the federal government through the end of September. It would trim non-defense spending by about $13 billion from the previous year and increase defense spending by about $6 billion, which are marginal changes when talking about a topline spending level of nearly $1.7 trillion.The Republican-led House&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-budget-funding-government-shutdown-e027a644af4152377b8cf99f6a91102f">passed</a>&nbsp;the spending bill on Tuesday and then adjourned. The move left senators with a decision to either take it or leave it. And while Democrats have been pushing for a vote on a fourth short-term extension, GOP leadership made clear that option was a non-starter.Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., and others used their floor time Thursday to make the case that any blame for a shutdown would fall squarely on Democrats.“Democrats need to decide if they're going to support funding legislation that came over from the House, or if they're going to shut down the government,” Thune said when opening the chamber.Progressive groups urged Democratic lawmakers to insist on the 30-day extension and oppose the spending bill, saying “business as usual must not continue” while Trump and ally&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/elon-musk">Elon Musk</a>&nbsp;dismantle critical agencies and programs.But Schumer said Trump would seize more power during a shutdown, because it would give the administration the ability to deem whole agencies, programs and personnel non-essential,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-trump-elon-musk-johnson-schumer-jeffries-cf75ae3c5f04207980cb96b286e70c09">furloughing staff</a>&nbsp;with no promise they would ever be rehired.“A shutdown would give Donald Trump the keys to the city, the state and the country,” Schumer said.Democrats have been critical of the funding levels in the bill. They note that both defense and non-defense spending is lower than what was agreed to nearly two years ago when Congress&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-debt-ceiling-budget-signing-f78a000d83cf85ffbaa2d08637844053">passed legislation</a>&nbsp;lifting the debt ceiling in return for spending restraints.But they are even more worried about the discretion the bill gives the Trump administration on spending decisions. Many Democrats are referring to the measure as a “blank check” for Trump.Spending bills typically come with specific funding directives for key programs, but hundreds of those directives fall away under the continuing resolution passed by the House. So the administration will have more leeway to decide where the money goes.For example, a Democratic memo said the bill would allow the administration to steer money away from combating fentanyl and instead use it on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-biden-deportations-border-immigration-bcd2737e6f9b482ec500238c6caa4f35">mass deportation initiatives</a>. At the Army Corps of Engineers, funding levels for more than 1,000 projects to enhance commerce, flood control and healthy ecosystems would be determined by the administration rather than Congress.Democrats also object to the treatment of the District of Columbia, as the bill effectively repeals its current year budget and forces it to go back to the prior year's levels, even though the district raises most of its own money. Mayor Muriel Bowser said the district would have to cut spending by $1.1 billion over just a few months.Democrats also object to clawing back $20 billion in special IRS funding, on top of the $20 billion rescission approved the year before. The changes essentially cut in half the funding boost that Congress intended to give the agency through legislation passed by Democrats during Joe Biden's presidency.The spending bill before the Senate is separate from the GOP effort to extend tax cuts for individuals passed in Trump's first term and to pay for those with spending cuts elsewhere in the budget.That second package will be developed in the months ahead, but it was clearly part of the political calculus Democrats were considering as they argued against the six-month extension. Both efforts are designed to help the well-off at the expense of other Americans, they said.“You're looking at a one-two punch, a very bad CR, then a reconciliation bill coming down, which will be the final kick in the teeth for the American people,” said Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt.Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., said the Democratic arguments were hypocritical because they were essentially calling for shutting down the government to protect the government.“Democrats are fighting to withhold the paychecks of air traffic controllers, our troops, federal custodial staff,” Cotton said. “They can't be serious.”

🎥Senate faces midnight deadline to avoid government shutdown

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Stevens County Health Department have reported a positive case of measles in a resident of Stevens County, according to a media release from the KDHE.

 It is currently unknown whether this case is linked to any ongoing measles outbreaks in the United States. KDHE, along with the Stevens County Health Department, are notifying individuals who may have been exposed to this case of measles. This incident marks the first measles case in Kansas since 2018.

Early symptoms of measles are a fever of more than 101 degrees Fahrenheit, runny nose, cough, and red, watery eyes. Usually, one to four days after these early symptoms, a red rash appears on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.&nbsp;Measles symptoms typically develop 10-14 days after exposure. Symptoms can develop as soon as seven days and as long as 21 days after exposure.

Measles is a respiratory disease caused by a virus. Measles is spread through the air by breathing, coughing or sneezing. Measles can be spread from an infected person to others from four days before, to four days after the rash appears.

Because measles is a highly infectious disease, it is very important for anyone exposed and experiencing symptoms to isolate from others with the exception of visiting a health care provider.

The best way to prevent measles is to get the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends children get their first dose at 12 to 15 months of age, and a second dose at age 4 to 6 years. Infants ages 6 through 11 months old should get the MMR vaccination if traveling outside the United States. Adults are protected from measles if they have had at least one dose of the MMR vaccine, were born before 1957, or have evidence of immunity from a blood test.

If an individual has known exposure to someone with measles and they are not immune through vaccination or prior infection, they are recommended to:

Per&nbsp;K.A.R. 28-1-2, measles is a four-hour reportable disease. If a health care provider, laboratory or hospital suspects, tests, or diagnoses an individual with measles, KDHE should be notified immediately. KDHE will work with the health care provider on testing recommendations. Teachers and school administrators are also required by law to report suspected cases to KDHE. &nbsp;

Measles cases rarely occur in Kansas and are usually associated with international travel.

For questions, call the Stevens County Health Department at 620-544-7177 or KDHE Epidemiology Hotline at 877-427-7317 (option 5).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741908251964.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Stevens County Health Department have reported a positive case of measles in a resident of Stevens County, according to a media release from the KDHE. It is currently unknown whether this case is linked to any ongoing measles outbreaks in the United States. KDHE, along with the Stevens County Health Department, are notifying individuals who may have been exposed to this case of measles. This incident marks the first measles case in Kansas since 2018.Early symptoms of measles are a fever of more than 101 degrees Fahrenheit, runny nose, cough, and red, watery eyes. Usually, one to four days after these early symptoms, a red rash appears on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.&nbsp;Measles symptoms typically develop 10-14 days after exposure. Symptoms can develop as soon as seven days and as long as 21 days after exposure.Measles is a respiratory disease caused by a virus. Measles is spread through the air by breathing, coughing or sneezing. Measles can be spread from an infected person to others from four days before, to four days after the rash appears.Because measles is a highly infectious disease, it is very important for anyone exposed and experiencing symptoms to isolate from others with the exception of visiting a health care provider.The best way to prevent measles is to get the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends children get their first dose at 12 to 15 months of age, and a second dose at age 4 to 6 years. Infants ages 6 through 11 months old should get the MMR vaccination if traveling outside the United States. Adults are protected from measles if they have had at least one dose of the MMR vaccine, were born before 1957, or have evidence of immunity from a blood test.If an individual has known exposure to someone with measles and they are not immune through vaccination or prior infection, they are recommended to:<ul>
 <li>Consult with a health care provider to determine if post-exposure prophylaxis is recommended.</li><li>Exclude themselves from public settings for 21 days from the last time they were exposed unless symptoms develop.</li><li>If&nbsp;symptoms&nbsp;develop, individuals should notify their local health department and stay away from public areas until four days after the rash appeared.</li><li>Individuals seeking health care are advised to call ahead to their health care provider and let them know their symptoms and exposure concerns. This will help limit exposure within the healthcare setting.</li>
 </ul>Per&nbsp;K.A.R. 28-1-2, measles is a four-hour reportable disease. If a health care provider, laboratory or hospital suspects, tests, or diagnoses an individual with measles, KDHE should be notified immediately. KDHE will work with the health care provider on testing recommendations. Teachers and school administrators are also required by law to report suspected cases to KDHE. &nbsp;Measles cases rarely occur in Kansas and are usually associated with international travel.For questions, call the Stevens County Health Department at 620-544-7177 or KDHE Epidemiology Hotline at 877-427-7317 (option 5).

KDHE reports first case of measles in Kansas since 2018

According to Saline County Sheriff's Office Capt. Fruits, Vinardi was transported to Miracles Inc. facility in Wichita,&nbsp;not Mirror as had been originally reported by Salina Post.&nbsp;

By SALINA POSTSaline County Sheriff's Deputies and law enforcement in Wichita are searching for a woman facing felony drug charges in Salina after she walked away from a court-ordered assessment center and treatment facility in Wichita before entering.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan, 42-year-old Amanda Vinardi was arrested in Wichita on Jan. 9 on a Saline County District Court warrant connected to a case investigated by the Salina Police Department. She was transported to Saline County Jail before being court-ordered to a facility in Wichita.&nbsp;

Vinardi was facing multiple requested charges, including Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of marijuana, Possession of drug paraphernalia and Aggravated endangering a child

Vinardi is now facing an additional requested charge of escape from custody. A warrant has been issued for her arrest, and Wichita Police Officers and Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office have been notified.

According to Saline County Sheriff's Office Capt. Fruits, Vinardi was transported to Miracles Inc. facility in Wichita,&nbsp;not Mirror as had been originally reported by Salina Post.

Capt. Fruits said that Vinardi was transported from the Saline County Jail to a treatment facility in Wichita on February 19 under a court order. On March 4, she failed to attend a required class, and staff later determined she had walked away from the facility.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736517622649.jpeg" alt=" Vinardi photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption> Vinardi photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>According to Saline County Sheriff's Office Capt. Fruits, Vinardi was transported to Miracles Inc. facility in Wichita,&nbsp;not Mirror as had been originally reported by Salina Post.&nbsp;By SALINA POSTSaline County Sheriff's Deputies and law enforcement in Wichita are searching for a woman facing felony drug charges in Salina after she walked away from a court-ordered assessment center and treatment facility in Wichita before entering.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan, 42-year-old Amanda Vinardi was arrested in Wichita on Jan. 9 on a Saline County District Court warrant connected to a case investigated by the Salina Police Department. She was transported to Saline County Jail before being court-ordered to a facility in Wichita.&nbsp;Vinardi was facing multiple requested charges, including Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of marijuana, Possession of drug paraphernalia and Aggravated endangering a childVinardi is now facing an additional requested charge of escape from custody. A warrant has been issued for her arrest, and Wichita Police Officers and Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office have been notified.According to Saline County Sheriff's Office Capt. Fruits, Vinardi was transported to Miracles Inc. facility in Wichita,&nbsp;not Mirror as had been originally reported by Salina Post.Capt. Fruits said that Vinardi was transported from the Saline County Jail to a treatment facility in Wichita on February 19 under a court order. On March 4, she failed to attend a required class, and staff later determined she had walked away from the facility.

Correction: Kan. woman facing felony charges walks away from treatment center before entry

WASHINGTON (AP)—Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday that he agrees in principle with a U.S. proposal for a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-putin-ukraine-war-trump-zelenskyy-ceasefire-ff03a8b11b03da88d1d26e797f97e623">30-day ceasefire</a>&nbsp;in Ukraine, but he emphasized that the terms are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-putin-ukraine-war-trump-zelenskyy-ceasefire-ff03a8b11b03da88d1d26e797f97e623">yet to be worked out</a>&nbsp;and added that any truce should pave the way to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-foreign-troops-772b964b00f00fe554d0e3d97eb7f2f4">lasting peace</a>.

“The idea itself is correct, and we certainly support it," Putin told a news conference in Moscow. “But there are issues that we need to discuss, and I think that we need to talk about it with our American colleagues and partners and, perhaps, have a call with President Trump and discuss it with him."

President Donald Trump said there have been “good signals” coming out of Russia and offered guarded optimism about Putin’s statement. He reiterated that he's ready to speak with Putin and underscored that it was time to end the war.

Putin "put out a very promising statement, but it wasn’t complete,” Trump said Thursday at a start of a meeting at the White House with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mark-rutte">NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte</a>. “Now we’re going to see whether or not Russia’s there. And if they’re not, it’ll be a very disappointing moment for the world.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Putin is “essentially preparing to reject” the ceasefire.

Putin “is afraid to tell President Trump directly that he wants to continue this war, that he wants to kill Ukrainians,” Zelenskyy said in his nightly address to the nation. “That is why, in Moscow, they are surrounding the idea of a ceasefire with such preconditions that nothing will come of it — or at least, it will be delayed as long as possible.”

The Russian president, he added, “often acts this way. He doesn’t say ‘no’ outright but ensures that everything drags on and that normal solutions become impossible.”

Putin, who launched the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">full-scale invasion</a>&nbsp;of Ukraine more than three years ago, noted the need to control possible breaches of the truce and signaled that Russia would seek guarantees that Ukraine would not use the break in hostilities to rearm and continue mobilization.

“We agree with the proposals to halt the fighting, but we proceed from the assumption that the ceasefire should lead to lasting peace and remove the root causes of the crisis,” Putin said.

The Russian leader made the remarks just hours after the arrival of Trump’s special envoy,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d26c80c87a57fd3a811e4b0aa0eda58e">Steve Witkoff</a>, in Moscow for talks on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-putin-ukraine-war-trump-zelenskyy-ceasefire-ff03a8b11b03da88d1d26e797f97e623">ceasefire</a>, which Ukraine has accepted. A Kremlin adviser said Putin planned to meet with Witkoff later Thursday.

The diplomatic effort coincided with a Russian claim that its troops have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-kursk-putin-zelenskyy-8d7afde9eb8bce215007f3f8cc29fed6">driven the Ukrainian army out</a>&nbsp;of a key town in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-putin-kursk-incursion-ca6d18d06606794580bdc779d2c98134">Russia’s Kursk border region</a>, where Moscow has been trying for seven months to dislodge Ukrainian troops from their foothold.

Putin said it appeared that the U.S. persuaded Ukraine to accept a ceasefire and that Ukraine is interested because of the battlefield situation, particularly in Kursk.

Referring to the Ukrainian troops in Kursk, he questioned what will happen to them if the ceasefire takes hold: “Will all those who are there come out without a fight? Or will the Ukrainian leadership order them to lay down arms and surrender?"

Putin thanked Trump “for paying so much attention to the settlement in Ukraine.”

He also thanked the leaders of China, India, Brazil and South Africa for their “noble mission to end the fighting,” a statement that suggested those countries could be involved in a ceasefire deal. Russia has said it will not accept&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-ukraine-force-peacekeepers-nato-us-security-119c302621e58a3e3bcb7841aa1ce161">peacekeepers from any NATO members</a>&nbsp;to monitor a prospective truce.

Putin's seemingly friendly tone toward the White House reflected the astonishing shift in U.S. relations with Russia and Ukraine since Trump returned to office in January.

Under the administration of former President Joe Biden, the United States was Ukraine's staunchest and most powerful ally and a force for isolating the Kremlin. But Trump's election threw that policy into reverse.

Trump briefly cut off&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-zelenskyy-russia-ukraine-a15a459c9a3a393d040478ebbe250a9e">critical military aid</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-putin-trump-cia-zelenskyy-5eb2c8025f6bb4b616c86e1fe89bba0f">intelligence sharing</a>&nbsp;in an apparent effort to push Kyiv to enter talks to end the war, and Zelenskyy had a testy meeting at the White House on Feb. 28 in which Trump questioned whether Ukraine wanted to halt the war.

The Trump administration has also repeatedly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-trump-putin-talks-89e19bc56677064f6f9a6d6e03de7362">embraced Kremlin positions</a>&nbsp;on the conflict, including indicating that Ukraine's hopes of joining NATO are unlikely to be realized and that it probably will not get back the land that Russia’s army occupies, which amounts to nearly 20% of the country.

The Russian Defense Ministry’s claim that it recaptured the town of Sudzha, a Ukrainian operations hub in Kursk, came hours after Putin visited his commanders in the Kursk region. The claim could not be independently verified. Ukrainian officials made no immediate comment.

Administration repeats threat of new sanctions

As Trump seeks a diplomatic end to the war, he has made veiled threats to hit Russia with new sanctions if it does not engage with peace efforts.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told CNBC Thursday that Trump is “willing to apply maximum pressure on both sides,” including sanctions that reach the highest scale on Russia.

The U.S. still has about $3.85 billion in congressionally authorized funding for future arms shipments to Ukraine, but the Trump administration has shown no interest so far in using that authority to send additional weapons as it awaits the outcome of peace overtures.

WASHINGTON (AP)—Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday that he agrees in principle with a U.S. proposal for a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-putin-ukraine-war-trump-zelenskyy-ceasefire-ff03a8b11b03da88d1d26e797f97e623">30-day ceasefire</a>&nbsp;in Ukraine, but he emphasized that the terms are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-putin-ukraine-war-trump-zelenskyy-ceasefire-ff03a8b11b03da88d1d26e797f97e623">yet to be worked out</a>&nbsp;and added that any truce should pave the way to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-foreign-troops-772b964b00f00fe554d0e3d97eb7f2f4">lasting peace</a>.“The idea itself is correct, and we certainly support it," Putin told a news conference in Moscow. “But there are issues that we need to discuss, and I think that we need to talk about it with our American colleagues and partners and, perhaps, have a call with President Trump and discuss it with him."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">President Trump on Putin&#39;s response to ceasefire proposal: &quot;He put out a very promising statement, but it wasn&#39;t complete … Now we&#39;re going to see whether or not Russia&#39;s there. And if they&#39;re not, it&#39;ll be a very disappointing moment for the world.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/T9DuL3TA5G">pic.twitter.com/T9DuL3TA5G</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1900280873573904871?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>President Donald Trump said there have been “good signals” coming out of Russia and offered guarded optimism about Putin’s statement. He reiterated that he's ready to speak with Putin and underscored that it was time to end the war.Putin "put out a very promising statement, but it wasn’t complete,” Trump said Thursday at a start of a meeting at the White House with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mark-rutte">NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte</a>. “Now we’re going to see whether or not Russia’s there. And if they’re not, it’ll be a very disappointing moment for the world.”Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Putin is “essentially preparing to reject” the ceasefire.Putin “is afraid to tell President Trump directly that he wants to continue this war, that he wants to kill Ukrainians,” Zelenskyy said in his nightly address to the nation. “That is why, in Moscow, they are surrounding the idea of a ceasefire with such preconditions that nothing will come of it — or at least, it will be delayed as long as possible.”The Russian president, he added, “often acts this way. He doesn’t say ‘no’ outright but ensures that everything drags on and that normal solutions become impossible.”Putin, who launched the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">full-scale invasion</a>&nbsp;of Ukraine more than three years ago, noted the need to control possible breaches of the truce and signaled that Russia would seek guarantees that Ukraine would not use the break in hostilities to rearm and continue mobilization.“We agree with the proposals to halt the fighting, but we proceed from the assumption that the ceasefire should lead to lasting peace and remove the root causes of the crisis,” Putin said.The Russian leader made the remarks just hours after the arrival of Trump’s special envoy,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d26c80c87a57fd3a811e4b0aa0eda58e">Steve Witkoff</a>, in Moscow for talks on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-putin-ukraine-war-trump-zelenskyy-ceasefire-ff03a8b11b03da88d1d26e797f97e623">ceasefire</a>, which Ukraine has accepted. A Kremlin adviser said Putin planned to meet with Witkoff later Thursday.The diplomatic effort coincided with a Russian claim that its troops have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-kursk-putin-zelenskyy-8d7afde9eb8bce215007f3f8cc29fed6">driven the Ukrainian army out</a>&nbsp;of a key town in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-putin-kursk-incursion-ca6d18d06606794580bdc779d2c98134">Russia’s Kursk border region</a>, where Moscow has been trying for seven months to dislodge Ukrainian troops from their foothold.<h2>Russia questions details of truce offer</h2>Putin said it appeared that the U.S. persuaded Ukraine to accept a ceasefire and that Ukraine is interested because of the battlefield situation, particularly in Kursk.Referring to the Ukrainian troops in Kursk, he questioned what will happen to them if the ceasefire takes hold: “Will all those who are there come out without a fight? Or will the Ukrainian leadership order them to lay down arms and surrender?"Putin thanked Trump “for paying so much attention to the settlement in Ukraine.”He also thanked the leaders of China, India, Brazil and South Africa for their “noble mission to end the fighting,” a statement that suggested those countries could be involved in a ceasefire deal. Russia has said it will not accept&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-ukraine-force-peacekeepers-nato-us-security-119c302621e58a3e3bcb7841aa1ce161">peacekeepers from any NATO members</a>&nbsp;to monitor a prospective truce.Putin's seemingly friendly tone toward the White House reflected the astonishing shift in U.S. relations with Russia and Ukraine since Trump returned to office in January.Under the administration of former President Joe Biden, the United States was Ukraine's staunchest and most powerful ally and a force for isolating the Kremlin. But Trump's election threw that policy into reverse.Trump briefly cut off&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-zelenskyy-russia-ukraine-a15a459c9a3a393d040478ebbe250a9e">critical military aid</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-putin-trump-cia-zelenskyy-5eb2c8025f6bb4b616c86e1fe89bba0f">intelligence sharing</a>&nbsp;in an apparent effort to push Kyiv to enter talks to end the war, and Zelenskyy had a testy meeting at the White House on Feb. 28 in which Trump questioned whether Ukraine wanted to halt the war.The Trump administration has also repeatedly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-trump-putin-talks-89e19bc56677064f6f9a6d6e03de7362">embraced Kremlin positions</a>&nbsp;on the conflict, including indicating that Ukraine's hopes of joining NATO are unlikely to be realized and that it probably will not get back the land that Russia’s army occupies, which amounts to nearly 20% of the country.The Russian Defense Ministry’s claim that it recaptured the town of Sudzha, a Ukrainian operations hub in Kursk, came hours after Putin visited his commanders in the Kursk region. The claim could not be independently verified. Ukrainian officials made no immediate comment.<h2>Administration repeats threat of new sanctions</h2>As Trump seeks a diplomatic end to the war, he has made veiled threats to hit Russia with new sanctions if it does not engage with peace efforts.U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told CNBC Thursday that Trump is “willing to apply maximum pressure on both sides,” including sanctions that reach the highest scale on Russia.The U.S. still has about $3.85 billion in congressionally authorized funding for future arms shipments to Ukraine, but the Trump administration has shown no interest so far in using that authority to send additional weapons as it awaits the outcome of peace overtures.By signaling its openness to a ceasefire at a time when the Russian military has the upper hand in the war, Ukraine has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-putin-ukraine-war-trump-zelenskyy-ceasefire-ff03a8b11b03da88d1d26e797f97e623">presented the Kremlin with a dilemma</a>&nbsp;— whether to accept a truce and abandon hopes of making new gains, or reject the offer and risk derailing a cautious rapprochement with Washington.The Ukrainian army’s foothold inside Russia has been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-kursk-d297a59fb9eb7db08bd742e1dd0aa753">under intense pressure</a>&nbsp;for months from the renewed effort by Russian forces,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-korea-russia-ukraine-troops-6e7fdfdc3a9c3fb5bd887aff0ddca343">backed by North Korean troops</a>. Ukraine's daring incursion last August led to the first occupation of Russian soil by foreign troops since World War II and embarrassed the Kremlin.Ukraine launched the raid in a bid to counter the unceasingly grim news from the front line, as well as to draw Russian troops away from the battlefield inside Ukraine and to gain a bargaining chip in any peace talks. But the incursion did not significantly change the dynamic of the war.The Institute for the Study of War, a Washington-based think tank, assessed late Wednesday that Russian forces were in control of Sudzha, a town close to the border that previously was home to about 5,000 people.Ukraine’s top military commander, Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, said Russian aircraft conducted so many strikes on Kursk that Sudzha had been almost completely destroyed. He did not comment on whether Ukraine still controlled the settlement but said his country was “maneuvering (troops) to more advantageous lines.”___