On this day in 1894, Coca-Cola began selling its drink in square glass bottles, initially available in Mississippi. Before this, like beer, it was only served on tap.
Ukraine Agrees to U.S. Ceasefire Plan
Ukraine has agreed to a U.S.-brokered 30-day ceasefire proposal, contingent on Russia’s acceptance, following high-level peace talks in Saudi Arabia.
As part of the deal, the U.S. will immediately resume military aid and intelligence sharing, which the White House froze after a contentious Oval Office meeting less than two weeks ago.
Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, said Zelensky also sent Trump a letter of apology after that meeting and called the apology an “important step” toward rebuilding trust.
U.S. officials say the “ball is now in Russia’s court,” but Russian officials seemed to signal upcoming rejection of the agreement, expressing skepticism about U.S. intentions.
Southwest Kills Free Checked Bags
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Southwest Airlines unveiled sweeping changes Tuesday, scrapping its iconic “two bags fly free” policy and introducing baggage fees for most passengers starting May 28.
The airline is also launching a no-frills basic economy fare that prohibits free flight changes, ending another customer-friendly practice that sets Southwest apart from competitors.
The shift was driven by a push by activist hedge fund Elliott Investment Management to boost revenue. It earned praise from at least one competitor: United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby called it “the slaying of the sacred cow.“
Travelers buying anything but the top-tier Business Select fare will pay to check bags—likely around $35 each, matching competitors. All tickets still include a free carry-on.
House narrowly passes six-month funding bill as shutdown deadline nears
The Republican-led House voted Tuesday to pass a six-month funding bill that would prevent a government shutdown at the end of the week, overcoming fierce Democratic objections.
The vote was 217-213, with all Republicans but Thomas Massie, of Kentucky, supporting the legislation. One Democrat, Jared Golden, of Maine, voted for it.
The measure now heads to the Senate, where its fate is uncertain. Republicans control 53 seats, and Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., has made clear he’s firmly against it. That means at least eight Democratic senators would have to support the bill to cross the Senate’s 60-vote threshold and send it to President Donald Trump’s desk.