The U.S. government has asked French companies with federal contracts to confirm they do not engage in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. According to Les Echos, the U.S. Embassy in Paris sent compliance questionnaires to companies involved in defense, infrastructure, and technology. These firms were required to provide assurances that they align with the administration’s DEI ban.
A senior French official close to Finance Minister Eric Lombard condemned the request, calling it “out of step with our values.” The French government is preparing to raise the issue with Washington. While the full scope of the inquiry remains unclear, there are concerns that companies in other European nations may have received similar notices. French firms affected by the inquiry are reportedly evaluating potential legal and diplomatic responses.
Trump Announces Tariff Increases, Signals Openness to Negotiations
President Donald Trump confirmed on Friday that a new round of tariffs will take effect on April 2, targeting countries that impose trade barriers on U.S. goods. The sectors affected include technology, pharmaceuticals, and automotive industries.
Despite the tariff rollout, Trump signaled a willingness to negotiate. “They want deals, and I’m open—if we get something meaningful in return,” he stated while traveling on Air Force One. Reports indicate that the United Kingdom has already begun discussions with the administration. Future tariff adjustments are likely to depend on trade agreements reached after the April deadline.
Economic analysts predict that these tariffs may lead to retaliatory measures from affected countries, potentially impacting global supply chains. The European Union has expressed concerns about potential economic disruptions and is reportedly considering countermeasures.
Court Blocks Trump Administration’s Plan to Shut Down Voice of America
A federal judge in New York has temporarily blocked the Trump administration’s plan to shut down Voice of America (VOA). The court order halts planned layoffs and prevents the administration from dismantling the government-funded broadcaster.
The legal challenge came from VOA employees, press unions, and Reporters Without Borders. Clayton Weimers, the U.S. director of the organization, welcomed the ruling. “This decision is a victory for press freedom. VOA plays a crucial role in global journalism, and shutting it down would have been a blow to independent reporting.”
The administration has argued that funding VOA is no longer in the national interest, but critics say the move was politically motivated. The court ruling allows VOA to continue operations while legal proceedings unfold.
Columbia University Faces Another Leadership Shake-Up
Columbia University announced that interim president Katrina Armstrong is stepping down after seven months in the role. She will be replaced by journalist Claire Shipman, who previously worked for ABC News.
Armstrong faced growing political pressure as Washington threatened to withhold $400 million in federal funding. In response, Columbia agreed to review campus protest policies, security measures, and its Middle East studies programs. Some faculty and students see these actions as a compromise to government demands, raising concerns about academic freedom.
Shipman’s appointment signals a shift in leadership style, with the university seeking a steady hand amid continued scrutiny. The administration has yet to confirm if further policy changes will be made under Shipman’s tenure.
Top FDA Vaccine Official Resigns Amid Political Tensions
Peter Marks, a senior FDA official and a key figure in the U.S. COVID-19 vaccine rollout, has resigned. The Wall Street Journal reported that Marks was given an ultimatum—resign or be dismissed.
In a letter to agency leadership, Marks accused Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. of suppressing scientific data and promoting false narratives. Kennedy, known for his anti-vaccine stance, has announced plans to overhaul federal health agencies and eliminate up to 10,000 positions.
The resignation has sparked concerns within the medical and scientific communities. Former health officials warn that the removal of experts like Marks could hinder public health initiatives. Meanwhile, the FDA has yet to announce a replacement for his role.