Thursday, February 13th, 2025 - US-Russia prisoner swap; Ukraine talks; Cabinet updates; Inflation rose to 3%; WH bars AP reporter

Today’s Headlines: The U.S. swapped American detainee Marc Fogel for Russian bitcoin money launderer Alexander Vinnik, as Trump and Putin agreed to negotiate a Ukraine ceasefire without Ukraine’s NATO membership. Belarus freed three prisoners, including one American. Tulsi Gabbard was confirmed as Director of National Intelligence, and RFK Jr.’s nomination for Health Secretary advanced. A judge ruled federal employees must choose buyout offers, while eight fired inspectors general sued for reinstatement. Civil rights groups filed a lawsuit over Guantanamo immigrant detentions. Inflation rose 3%, dimming hopes of rate cuts. Lastly, the White House barred an AP reporter for refusing to adopt the term "Gulf of America."

Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode:

• Axios: Russian bitcoin exchange co-founder to be released as part of swap for Marc Fogel
• Axios: Trump says he might meet Putin in Saudi Arabia after call on Ukraine 
• ABC News: Journalist, American among 3 prisoners freed from Belarus - ABC News
• WA Post: Tulsi Gabbard confirmed by Senate as director of national intelligence
• AP News: Judge removes key legal hurdle for Trump’s plan to trim federal workforce with deferred resignations
• Axios: Inspectors general sue Trump admin over their firings
• Axios: Groups sue to get access to immigrants at Guantánamo Bay 
• CNBC: Consumer prices rise 0.5% in January, higher than expected as annual rate rises to 3% 
• AP News: White House bars AP reporter from Oval Office because of AP style policy on 'Gulf of America' 

Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson

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