Today, we're talking about Russia-Ukraine peace talks, Senate confirmations and federal

buyouts, inflation's rise in January, and other top news for Friday, February 14th.

Stay informed while remaining focused on Christ with the pull over today.

Here's the quote of the day.

It is not good for us to trust in our merits, in our virtues, or our righteousness, but only

in God's free pardon as given us through faith in Jesus Christ.

John Whitecliffe.

Let's get started with some espresso shots.

Uncle Sam is prioritizing peace talks between Russia and Ukraine.

Defense Secretary Pete Hexeth visited NATO headquarters Wednesday to talk about the future

of the nearly three-year-old war.

He said Ukraine shouldn't hold its breath for NATO membership, needs to make realistic land concessions,

and won't see any U.S. peacekeeping boots on the ground.

Meanwhile, in Washington, President Trump shared a lengthy and highly productive phone call with Russian President Putin,

agreeing to open talks to end the war soon.

Trump also called Ukraine's President Zelensky, who's ready to get it done.

President Trump says he backs Ukraine, but his willingness to cede land and NATO membership

before negotiations formally begin has raised alarms internationally.

European powers called for strong security guarantees for Ukraine, saying any deal must include

Ukraine in Europe.

Whatever path you see out of conflict, believing your right is not an excuse for believers

to be harsh, impatient, or unkind.

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