The Trump administration began mass termination of probationary federal workers, particularly affecting nuclear weapons agencies and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. By midday, a Russian drone strike reportedly hit Chernobyl's containment shell, though radiation levels remained normal.
Vice President Vance's Munich Security Conference speech criticized European allies while suggesting military leverage against Russia, prompting Kremlin requests for clarification. His subsequent meeting with far-right German leaders generated further controversy.
The Department of Justice moved to dismiss corruption charges against NYC Mayor Adams, triggering multiple prosecutor resignations. Legal challenges mounted against DOGE's access to federal payment systems, while Treasury launched an audit of Musk's team. The Army announced the end of gender-affirming procedures and transgender recruitment, expanding previous days' institutional restructuring beyond workforce reductions.
