Gasoline Prices Hit Five-Year Low Ahead of Labor Day
Russia and Ukraine Appear Unprepared for Peace
The White House stated on August 28 (local time) that the United States' gross domestic product (GDP) for the second quarter increased by an annualized rate of 3.3% compared to the previous quarter (provisional figure), saying, "Ahead of the Labor Day holiday (September 1), there are many positive economic indicators that give Americans reason for hope."
White House spokesperson Caroline Leavitt said during a briefing that day, "We have said that when the 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act' is enacted, the effects of this massive pro-growth legislation will be seen." The act, which took effect early last month, includes various tax cuts and other key pledges of President Donald Trump.
Leavitt emphasized, "We are reversing the reckless spending and regulatory crackdown on small business owners and consumers that the previous (Biden) administration carried out over four years." She also explained that, thanks to President Trump's energy policies, gasoline prices have hit their lowest level in five years as of Labor Day.
President Trump is pursuing an energy policy focused on fossil fuels such as coal, rather than renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. Leavitt added that the drop in gasoline prices has given American households more financial flexibility.
The White House repeatedly highlighted the achievements of the Trump administration ahead of Labor Day. Leavitt cited attracting 10 trillion dollars in private and foreign investment, creating more than 500,000 new jobs, a 500-dollar increase in the average annual wage for American workers this year, and an average tax cut of about 4,000 dollars per taxpayer as major accomplishments of the Trump administration.
Regarding the end of the Russia-Ukraine war, she strongly condemned Russia's airstrikes but reiterated that the will and negotiations of the parties involved must go hand in hand for a resolution.
During the briefing, White House spokesperson Caroline Leavitt said, "It seems that perhaps both sides are not yet ready to end the war themselves," and added, "I told President Trump about this (Russia's attack on Ukraine), and although he was unhappy about the news, he was not surprised."
Leavitt stated, "Unfortunately, as long as the war continues, the killing will continue," adding, "This is why President Trump wants the war to end and why he has worked harder than anyone else for a resolution."
She continued, "President Trump wants the war to end, but the leaders of both countries also need to want and need an end to the war," and said, "I expect the President will make additional remarks on this issue soon."
As negotiations for an end to the Russia-Ukraine war remain stalled, Ukrainian authorities reported that Russia launched a large-scale missile and drone attack on Kyiv overnight, killing at least 17 people, including four children, and injuring 48 others.
Meanwhile, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz suggested the possibility that a summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky may not take place. Speaking at the Fort Br?gan?on in southern France, Chancellor Merz said, "Contrary to what President Trump and President Putin agreed to last week, it appears that a summit between Presidents Zelensky and Putin will not be held."
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