Context:

President Trump has initiated a federal crackdown on crime in Washington, D.C., deploying agents throughout the city with plans to address homelessness and criminal activity, even as violent crime rates have recently decreased. Meanwhile, Trump is scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska to discuss a potential ceasefire in Ukraine, notably without Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, amid European leaders' concerns over any agreements that might compromise Ukraine's sovereignty. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has announced a contentious plan to take control of the remaining areas of the Gaza Strip, facing criticism both domestically and internationally, while families of hostages express their opposition. In the children's literature realm, Brian Floca's book 'Island Storm' encourages risk-taking through its narrative and evocative illustrations, inspired by a real storm off the coast of Maine. Additionally, NPR is launching a series exploring the evolving global order, examining how countries might adapt to diminishing U.S. influence and considering the relevance of international alliances and institutions in the current geopolitical climate.

Dive Deeper:

• President Trump has deployed federal agents in Washington, D.C., to combat crime and homelessness, announcing plans to clear the streets of those without housing and incarcerate criminals, even though the city recently saw a significant drop in violent crime rates.

• A significant diplomatic meeting is set to occur between Trump and Putin in Alaska, focusing on a ceasefire in Ukraine; however, Ukrainian leadership is notably absent from discussions, raising concerns among European leaders about the implications for Ukraine's territorial integrity.

• Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu is advancing a controversial initiative to exert control over the remaining parts of the Gaza Strip, a move that involves displacing local populations and has been met with severe criticism from various quarters, including families of individuals held hostage in Gaza.

• Brian Floca's children's book 'Island Storm' tells the story of two siblings navigating an impending storm, drawing inspiration from a real-life storm off Maine's coast, and aims to promote themes of risk-taking through its dramatic, emotionally charged illustrations.

• NPR is embarking on a new series examining the shifting dynamics of the global post-war order, questioning the continued relevance of international alliances and institutions, and exploring how nations are responding to the perceived decline in U.S. global influence.

• The series, part of NPR's Morning Edition, will delve into the changing geopolitical landscape, assessing whether traditional symbols of global cooperation, like the United Nations, remain pertinent, and considering how bilateral relationships, such as the U.S.-U.K. 'special relationship,' may evolve.

• The discussion on international dynamics is timely as global tensions continue to rise, prompting an examination of how countries might adapt independently or collaboratively to the changing world order while striving for sustained progress and prosperity.