NPR News: 04-03-2026 4AM EDT

French President Emmanuel Macron issued sharp but indirect criticisms of President Trump during a state visit to South Korea. Macron stressed that any approach to the Iran conflict demands seriousness, not whimsy, remarking, "This is not a show. We are talking about war and peace and the lives of men and women." He also addressed Trump's suggestions of withdrawing from NATO, warning that such doubts "weakens and empties it of its substance." On Trump's personal jab that Macron is mistreated by his wife, Macron dismissed it as "unelegant and unworthy of a president," declining further comment. These remarks highlight ongoing transatlantic frictions over security alliances and foreign policy amid Trump's unpredictable style.

Justice Department Shakeup

President Trump appointed Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanch as acting attorney general after firing Pam Bondi on Thursday. Bondi's removal caps months of backlash over the Justice Department's management of the Epstein files and its pursuit of cases against figures Trump views as political adversaries. The switch installs Blanch in temporary leadership, signaling Trump's push to realign the department amid persistent controversies over high-profile investigations and perceived biases.