President Trump heads to Texas Friday to survey flood damage, Trump turns sharply critical of Russia's Putin, DOGE gains access to database that controls government payments to farmers and ranchers.

NPR asks Michael McFaul, former U.S. ambassador to Russia, about President Trump's recent tough talk about Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump said he's now considering new sanctions.

President Trump has been critical of Russian President Vladimir Putin in recent days. NPR looks at the deteriorating relationship and whether Trump might take steps against Russia in favor of Ukraine.

NPR asks legal scholar Kim Wehle about the limits of presidential power in light of multiple media reports of a Justice Department investigation into former intelligence officials.

We at War on the Rocks have curated this list of articles and podcasts to help you gain a deeper understanding of the history, drivers, background, and events of Russia’s massive assault on Ukraine.