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Kremlin Strikes Optimistic Tone as Officials Praise Trump’s Approach

  Deputy Chairman of the Russian Security Council Dmitry Medvedev attends an interview with Reuters, TASS and WarGonzo in the Moscow region, Russia January 29, 2026. Dmitry Medvedev's Secretariat. Russian officials have adopted a noticeably warmer tone toward U.S. President Donald Trump, offering public praise that signals a potential shift in the diplomatic atmosphere between Washington and Moscow. Recent comments from senior Russian figures highlight what they describe as Trump’s decisiveness and willingness to pursue negotiated solutions to global conflicts. Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council, characterized Trump as an “effective leader” whose unconventional style reflects a pragmatic focus on results. He suggested that Trump’s stated interest in ending the war in Ukraine could open the door to renewed dialogue. President Vladimir Putin echoed this sentiment, calling Trump a resilient and courageous figure, particularly in light of recent threats to...

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Starbucks Announces Layoffs Amid Operational Streamlining

 

Starbucks has announced plans to lay off 1,100 corporate employees globally as part of a broader effort to streamline operations under the leadership of new Chairman and CEO Brian Niccol. In a letter to employees released on Monday, Niccol outlined the company's intent to operate more efficiently, increase accountability, reduce complexity, and drive better integration.

The layoffs will affect corporate support employees, but baristas and other store-level staff will not be impacted. Additionally, several hundred open and unfilled positions will be eliminated. Niccol emphasized the need for all work to be overseen by decision-makers to reduce the complexity of Starbucks' structure and eliminate silos that hinder communication.

Niccol, who was hired last fall to address sluggish sales, has also implemented changes to improve service times, particularly during the morning rush, and re-establish Starbucks locations as community gathering places. The company is also cutting items from its menu and experimenting with ordering algorithms to better manage its mix of mobile, drive-thru, and in-store orders.

Despite a 2% decline in global same-store sales during its 2024 fiscal year, Starbucks has seen positive results from recent changes, including the decision to stop charging extra for non-dairy milk and streamlining the menu. These efforts have boosted store traffic and improved service, leading to a modest increase in Starbucks' shares.



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