Fed raises rates amid inflation, Ukraine hit by rockets, and Austrian abuse case unfolds
The Federal Reserve increased its policy rate for the first time since summer 2023, Russia launched ballistic missiles at Ukraine injuring twelve, and Günther “Gunkl” Paal admitted shame over a sexual abuse charge.
The Federal Reserve announced a policy rate hike, the first adjustment since the summer of 2023, aiming to curb high inflation and signaling broader implications for the world economy. Concurrently, Russia broke a brief pause to fire ballistic missiles at Ukraine, triggering loud explosions in Kyiv and resulting in twelve people being wounded. In Austria, Günther “Gunkl” Paal, 64, posted a video expressing remorse after being indicted for the sexual abuse of an underage individual; two women accused of extorting him have also been charged.
Justice Minister Anna Sporrer appeared before the parliamentary U-Committee on the Pilnacek case, reiterating her predecessor’s statement that no specific political influence on the probe has been observed. Additionally, the U.S. Senate and House approved a tougher sanctions package targeting Russia’s shadow fleet and President Vladimir Putin. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to address the EU Parliament on a proposed Canada-EU alliance, while President Donald Trump warned of a trade halt if the EU deepens ties with Canada.
Why it matters
Rate hikes, missile attacks and legal proceedings each have significant economic, security and societal repercussions.
How this story developed
- Sep 12 Trump's Kennedy Center takeover sparks funding crisis and artist exodus
- Sep 15 In a 7-2 unsigned order, the Supreme Court refused to overturn blocks on a new USPS regulation that would mandate election-mail markings, barcode-compatible envelopes, and a federal portal for voter data. The majority said the Justice Department had not shown a likelihood of success on the merits. Justice Brett Kavanaugh concurred, citing insufficient time for states to implement the rule before the midterms. Justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas authored a dissent, contending that the plaintiffs—mostly Democratic states—lacked standing and that the Postal Service’s statutory powers are broad. Alito emphasized that the timing argument does not justify denying the government’s application and criticized the challengers for delaying the rule’s rollout. He concluded that the “Hail Mary” effort would probably fail and urged the Court to grant the administration’s request. The decision stalls the rule for the upcoming election, though further litigation could allow implementation by 2028.
- Sep 15 The Supreme Court issued an order denying the administration’s emergency request to change mail‑in ballot handling.
- Sep 15 Donald Trump blasted the Supreme Court ruling, calling mail‑in voting a “laughing stock” and accusing the justices of being “petrified of these crazed and depraved Democrats.”
- Sep 16 Trump warned he would halt reconstruction entirely pending a court ruling on the naming request.
- Sep 16 The House of Representatives recessed after only seven workdays since returning from summer break, cancelling Thursday’s votes on Secretary of War Pete Hegseth’s impeachment and a Democratic AI proposal.
- Sep 17 Mike Johnson shifted Thursday’s agenda, delaying both the impeachment vote and the AI legislation.
- Sep 17 Joyce Beatty filed an emergency motion requesting a hearing to contest the board’s decision to shut the main building.
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