President Donald Trump has characterized reports regarding conditions on the USS Abraham Lincoln as fake. Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump downplayed concerns about mental health and supply issues affecting American sailors who have been at sea for over 240 days, a record-setting uninterrupted period.
Trump stated that a retired, unnamed admiral assured him the aircraft carrier is beautifully maintained. The President also commented that while 240 days is a significant duration, ships have been deployed for much longer periods over the years.
In other White House news, Trump discussed a scheduled conversation with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, noting Kim has responded to his request for talks. This follows Trump’s order to the Pentagon to reduce annual joint military exercises with South Korea, citing South Korea’s alleged refusal to assist in the United States’ war against Iran.
Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law and Mideast negotiator, held meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after discussions with Hamas chief Khalil al-Hayya in Egypt concerning disarmament. Netanyahu rejected a 15-point, U.S.-backed roadmap aimed at advancing a truce deal in Gaza, a plan Hamas reportedly agreed to.
The Trump administration is also temporarily halting border construction within Big Bend National Park in Texas. Rodney Scott, head of Customs and Border Protection, announced on X that he would conduct an on-the-ground evaluation of the project, which has faced bipartisan opposition due to environmental concerns and the region’s natural deterrents to migration. Activists, including Bob Krumenaker, former superintendent of Big Bend National Park, welcomed the pause but emphasized the need for equipment removal and damage repair.
Separately, Senator Tim Kaine announced plans to file a War Powers Resolution to prevent military action against Oman. Kaine cited Trump’s threats against Oman, a country with which the U.S. maintains diplomatic and trade relations, as a cause for concern.
The House Ethics Committee is investigating Democratic Representative Jimmy Gomez of California for potential sexual misconduct, including inappropriate sexual contact with a House staff member. Gomez acknowledged making personal mistakes outside his marriage, stating his actions were consensual and did not violate law or House Ethics rules, but expressed regret for the impact on his family and those he serves.
First Lady Melania Trump’s office reported she has helped reunite 34 children with their families following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. She previously sent a letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin advocating for peace, which she said opened a communication channel regarding children’s welfare.
President Trump also commented on the Strait of Hormuz, stating he likes the idea of declaring it a territory, without offering further details. He has previously considered expanding American territory to include Greenland, Canada, and Venezuela.
Regarding Flock Safety cameras, which record vehicle license plates and other characteristics, Trump said his administration is studying the technology, noting both its crime-fighting benefits and civil rights concerns. He expects a view on the matter soon.
Finally, Trump honored 16-year-old lifeguard Ryder Williams in the Oval Office for rescuing 10-year-old Nathaniel Rai from strong waves off the California coast. Dramatic video of the rescue went viral, showing Williams clinging to Rai as waves crashed over them before a second lifeguard assisted in bringing them to shore.
