Latest news with #Tru
Straits Times
27-05-2025
- Politics
- Straits Times
Trump administration halts scheduling of new student visa appointments
The US State Department is preparing to expand its social media vetting of foreign students. PHOTO: REUTERS WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump's administration has ordered its missions abroad to stop scheduling new appointments for student and exchange visitor visa applicants as the State Department prepares to expand social media vetting of foreign students, according to an internal cable seen by Reuters on May 27. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in the cable that the department plans to issue updated guidance on social media vetting of student and exchange visitor applicants after a review is completed, and advised consular sections to halt the scheduling of such visa appointments. The move comes as the Trump administration has sought to ramp up deportations and revoke student visas as part of its wide-ranging efforts to fulfill his hardline immigration agenda. In the cable, first reported by Politico, Mr Rubio said appointments that have already been scheduled can proceed under the current guidelines, but available appointments not already taken should be pulled down. "The Department is conducting a review of existing operations and processes for screening and vetting of student and exchange visitor (F, M, J) visa applicants, and based on that review, plans to issue guidance on expanded social media vetting for all such applicants," the cable said. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce declined to comment on reports of the cable, but said the US will use "every tool" to vet anyone who wants to enter the United States. "We will continue to use every tool we can to assess who it is that's coming here, whether they are students or otherwise," Ms Bruce told reporters at a regular news briefing. The expanded social media vetting will require consular sections to modify their operations, processes and allocation of resources, according to the cable, which advises the sections going forward to take into consideration the workload and resource requirements of each case before scheduling them. The cable also advises consular sections to remain focused on services for US citizens, immigrant visas and fraud prevention. US State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce said the US will use 'every tool' to vet anyone who wants to enter the country. PHOTO: AFP Trump administration officials have said student visa and green card holders are subject to deportation over their support for Palestinians and criticism of Israel's conduct in the war in Gaza, calling their actions a threat to US foreign policy and accusing them of being pro-Hamas. Mr Trump's critics have called the effort an attack on free speech rights under the First Amendment of the US Constitution. A Tufts University student from Turkey was held for over six weeks in an immigration detention centre in Louisiana after co-writing an opinion piece criticising her school's response to Israel's war in Gaza. She was released from custody after a federal judge granted her bail. Last week, the Trump administration moved to revoke Harvard's ability to enroll international students. Those roughly 6,800 students make up about 27 per cent of Harvard's total enrollment. The Republican president's administration has moved to undermine the financial stability and global standing of the nation's oldest and wealthiest university after it pushed back on government demands for vast changes to its policies. REUTERS Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Hilton's Tru brand updates prototype amid expansion
This story was originally published on Hotel Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Hotel Dive newsletter. Tru by Hilton launched a refreshed prototype in a bid to enhance guest comfort and flexibility as the midscale brand continues to expand globally, according to a Hilton release published Tuesday. Tru by Hilton has opened more than 300 hotels globally since its launch in 2016. The brand is seeking to expand in both primary and fast-growing secondary and tertiary markets in the U.S. and internationally, Brand Leader Andrew Harp told Hotel Dive. The new design brings enhancements to guest rooms, public spaces and guest floors that are 'rooted in real-world feedback' from guests, owners and hotel teams, according to Harp. Guest rooms in the refreshed Tru prototype feature a redesigned mobile rolling desk intended to offer space for working or dining, as well as improved lighting and updated furnishings to create a 'warmer, more welcoming atmosphere,' according to Hilton. A new roller shade system for window treatments also minimizes maintenance labor and downtime compared to the previous design, the company said. A revamped lobby features soft seating and high-back chairs, as well as a media wall with lobby games. Meanwhile, the brand has added a 'heat and cool' station near the elevator offering microwaves, ice machines and water-bottle refilling in response to guest and operator feedback. Harp said Hilton is 'focused on evolving the Tru experience in ways that drive loyalty, deliver value and set the brand up for long-term growth.' 'We're seeing strong demand from travelers seeking a vibrant, value-minded and practical hotel stay,' Harp told Hotel Dive, adding that the brand's global expansion has been driven by markets with a 'rising middle class.' Tru's flexible model, Harp noted, will allow the brand to expand further in both primary and fast-growing secondary and tertiary markets. Tru currently has 175 additional hotels in development, according to Hilton's website. In March, the brand opened Tru by Hilton Houston Downtown Convention Center, a dual-flag property with Home2Suites across from Houston's Toyota Center. Hilton has more than 100 dual-brand properties under development, as of a March announcement. The Tru by Hilton and Home2Suites pairing is the most common, per the company.
Hospitality Net
21-05-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Tru by Hilton Introduces Meaningful Prototype Changes, Expands Global Reach with Over 300 Open Hotels
MCLEAN, Va. – Tru by Hilton, Hilton's (NYSE: HLT) game-changing midscale brand, is unveiling a refreshed prototype—featuring purposeful updates designed to enhance comfort, flexibility and the overall guest experience. Since launching in 2016, the brand has seen rapid growth and momentum, boasting more than 300 hotels globally with recent brand debuts in Vietnam, Chile and Colombia. This expanding global reach offers more opportunity for travelers to enjoy Tru's consistent, high value stay experience while demonstrating how the brand continues to redefine expectations of a midscale hotel. Over the past eight years, Tru by Hilton has grown from a bold idea into a beloved brand that resonates with owners and guests around the globe. Our journey has been defined by rapid growth, continuous innovation and a commitment to delivering a stay that's simple, spirited and smart. We're excited to continue expanding our presence around the world and to welcome even more travelers to experience the Tru difference. Andrew Harp, Brand Leader, Tru by Hilton With a strong foundation in place, Tru by Hilton has quickly established itself as a leader in the midscale category and has been recognized for its guest satisfaction. As the brand continues to grow, it's also evolving to meet the changing needs of today's travelers, building on its reputation for reliability, affordability and spirited hospitality. A Refreshed Prototype Designed for Today's Traveler Tru by Hilton is introducing a refreshed prototype that brings thoughtful design enhancements to guest rooms, public spaces and guest floors. Grounded in feedback from guests, owners and hotel teams, the updates are designed to elevate comfort, flexibility and overall satisfaction, all while maintaining the approachable style and value Tru is known for. In guest rooms, updates include a re-designed mobile rolling desk that offers a large, versatile surface for working, dining or relaxing. Improved lighting and updated furnishings throughout the rooms help create a warmer, more welcoming atmosphere. The new roller shade system design for window treatments now offers an intuitive solution for guests while minimizing maintenance labor, downtime and cost versus the previous design. The lobby now features new soft seating and high-back chairs, giving guests more ways to relax or connect. A redesigned media wall brings Tru's signature lobby games front and center, encouraging spontaneous play and interaction. On every guest floor, the addition of a heat. & cool. station near the elevator gives travelers easy access to microwaves, ice machines and water bottle refill stations, an intuitive update inspired by recurring guest and operator feedback. 'This prototype refresh reflects how we're listening, both to our guests and our owners,' said Harp. 'Every update is rooted in real-world feedback, from added in-room flexibility to smart, efficient touches that improve operations. As we look to the future, we're focused on evolving the Tru experience in ways that drive loyalty, deliver value and set the brand up for long-term growth.' Hilton shared this video fly-through of the new design with current and prospective owners. Expanding the Tru Footprint Worldwide As Tru by Hilton celebrates the opening of its 300th hotel, the brand is continuing its strategic growth around the world. From distribution throughout the U.S. to major international cities, Tru is proving its versatility and cross-generational appeal across a diverse range of markets. Recent and upcoming highlights include: U.S.: Tru by Hilton Houston Downtown Convention Center: Opened March 2025 A dual-brand property that pairs Tru by Hilton with Home2 Suites by Hilton, this hotel offers guests a flexible stay experience and prime location across from the Toyota Center. A dual-brand property that pairs Tru by Hilton with Home2 Suites by Hilton, this hotel offers guests a flexible stay experience and prime location across from the Toyota Center. Vietnam: Tru by Hilton Hanoi Station: Opened April 2025 One of the brand's first properties in Vietnam, this hotel places guests near Hanoi's Old Quarter and major transit hubs, bringing Tru's modern approach to one of South East Asia's most dynamic capitals. One of the brand's first properties in Vietnam, this hotel places guests near Hanoi's Old Quarter and major transit hubs, bringing Tru's modern approach to one of South East Asia's most dynamic capitals. Canada: Tru by Hilton Montreal Centre-Ville: Opening Summer 2025 This upcoming property marks a milestone for Tru in Canada, introducing the brand's fresh design and value-driven offering to the heart of downtown Montreal. This upcoming property marks a milestone for Tru in Canada, introducing the brand's fresh design and value-driven offering to the heart of downtown Montreal. Mexico: Tru by Hilton Saltillo: Opening Summer 2025 Expanding Tru's presence in Mexico, this property sits in one of the country's growing industrial hubs, offering easy access to cultural attractions and manufacturing corridors. While the 300th hotel marks an exciting milestone, Tru by Hilton is just getting started. With more openings on the horizon, a refreshed prototype designed for today's traveler and growing demand across the globe, the brand is poised to continue delivering the consistency guests count on with the spirited experience they love. For more information about Tru by Hilton, visit About Hilton Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 24 world-class brands comprising more than 7,600 properties and nearly 1.2 million rooms, in 126 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality, Hilton has welcomed over 3 billion guests in its more than 100-year history, was named the No. 1 World's Best Workplace by Great Place to Work and Fortune and has been recognized as a global leader on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices for seven consecutive years. Hilton has introduced industry-leading technology enhancements to improve the guest experience, including Digital Key Share, automated complimentary room upgrades and the ability to book confirmed connecting rooms. Through the award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors, the nearly 190 million Hilton Honors members who book directly with Hilton can earn Points for hotel stays and experiences money can't buy. With the free Hilton Honors app, guests can book their stay, select their room, check in, unlock their door with a Digital Key and check out, all from their smartphone. Visit for more information, and connect with Hilton on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube. Kadrie Lamin Hilton View source
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
'Kyiv should be ours': Russians boosted after Putin-Trump call
A day after Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump spoke by phone on Ukraine, showering each other with compliments, Russian home-maker Anastasia had one wish: for Moscow to finish what it started in 2022. In the fourth spring of Moscow's devastating offensive, which has killed tens of thousands, diplomatic movement in recent days has given Russians a boost in confidence that victory -- in some shape or another -- is approaching. In the call with Trump on Monday, the Russian leader once again brushed off calls for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine, as demanded by the West and Kyiv. Despite that, the US president said the "tone" of the conversation was "excellent". Russia controls a fifth of Ukraine and holds an upper hand on the battlefield. "I am rooting for our country, I love it very much and I just want Vladimir Vladimirovich (Putin) to just, after all, get justice done," Anastasia told AFP in the Moscow suburbs, echoing official language calling for the defeat of Ukraine. Not knowing how or when it would happen, the 40-year-old mother, who declined to give her surname, said she was getting impatient. "I don't want my children to have to solve this issue. Let's decide it here and now." But she had no trust in Trump -- who she said is "just a businessman" who "wants money and nothing else" -- and worried the "Anglo-Saxons" will trick Russia. Putin has shown no sign of scaling down his maximalist demands for ending the Ukraine conflict, seeking little short of capitulation from Kyiv. - 'Final offensive' - At talks in Istanbul last week, Russian negotiators demanded Ukraine abandon territory it still controls in the east and south. Russia also wants Ukraine barred from NATO and for Western military support to end. Putin has repeatedly called for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to be removed from office. Confidence was tinged with uncertainty in Moscow after the Putin-Trump call, in which the Russian leader floated a vague "memorandum" that would outline demands for a peace deal and Trump said Kyiv and Moscow would begin talks swiftly. Many in Moscow did not know what Trump or Putin meant. Asked what her main feeling was following the talks, pensioner Sofiya said: "Uncertainty." "It's interesting what will happen to us, not only to our families, but our country," said the 72-year-old, who declined to give her surname. Like many, Sofiya saw no real progress from last week's talks -- the first direct negotiations on the conflict in more than three years. "I don't know how to express this, but I would like calm and peace," she said. Moscow has ramped up military censorship amid its Ukraine offensive, threatening years in prison for those who criticise or question the campaign. Zelensky said Russia was not serious about talks and is trying to "buy time" to continue its offensive. Putin was indeed hoping to advance more on the ground and will not "miss the opportunity" for a summer offensive, said Russian analyst Konstantin Kalachev. He called the Trump call a "tactical victory" for the Russian leader. "Russia is hoping to push them (Ukrainian forces) this summer," Kalachev said. "There will be no peace, while Russia has not yet used the option of a final offensive," he said, highlighting the prospect of a summer ground campaign. - 'No other way' - Though Putin said both sides should be ready to make "compromises", few were forthcoming from the Kremlin or on the streets of Moscow. "I believe that Odesa, Kharkiv, Nikolayev (Mykolaiv), Kyiv should be ours," said another pensioner, 70-year-old Marina, who also declined to give her surname, reeling off a string of Ukrainian cities that Russia has not formally claimed. Russian state TV said Moscow's negotiators threatened in Istanbul to seize more land if Ukraine does not pull its troops out of the Donetsk, Lugansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions that Moscow claims to have annexed. "If the four regions will not be recognised in the nearest future, the next time there will be six regions," said state TV presenter Yevgeny Popov. Moscow's chief negotiator Vladimir Medinsky later evoked Russia's 21-year war with Sweden in the 18th century, hinting Moscow was ready for a long fight. Marina, too, said she would support Russia to fight on, even as thousands of Russian soldiers have been killed. "Of course, it is a big shame that our people are also dying," she told AFP. "But there is no other way." bur/jhb
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
'Kyiv should be ours': Russians boosted after Putin-Trump call
A day after Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump spoke by phone on Ukraine, showering each other with compliments, Russian home-maker Anastasia had one wish: for Moscow to finish what it started in 2022. In the fourth spring of Moscow's devastating offensive, which has killed tens of thousands, diplomatic movement in recent days has given Russians a boost in confidence that victory -- in some shape or another -- is approaching. In the call with Trump on Monday, the Russian leader once again brushed off calls for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine, as demanded by the West and Kyiv. Despite that, the US president said the "tone" of the conversation was "excellent". Russia controls a fifth of Ukraine and holds an upper hand on the battlefield. "I am rooting for our country, I love it very much and I just want Vladimir Vladimirovich (Putin) to just, after all, get justice done," Anastasia told AFP in the Moscow suburbs, echoing official language calling for the defeat of Ukraine. Not knowing how or when it would happen, the 40-year-old mother, who declined to give her surname, said she was getting impatient. "I don't want my children to have to solve this issue. Let's decide it here and now." But she had no trust in Trump -- who she said is "just a businessman" who "wants money and nothing else" -- and worried the "Anglo-Saxons" will trick Russia. Putin has shown no sign of scaling down his maximalist demands for ending the Ukraine conflict, seeking little short of capitulation from Kyiv. - 'Final offensive' - At talks in Istanbul last week, Russian negotiators demanded Ukraine abandon territory it still controls in the east and south. Russia also wants Ukraine barred from NATO and for Western military support to end. Putin has repeatedly called for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to be removed from office. Confidence was tinged with uncertainty in Moscow after the Putin-Trump call, in which the Russian leader floated a vague "memorandum" that would outline demands for a peace deal and Trump said Kyiv and Moscow would begin talks swiftly. Many in Moscow did not know what Trump or Putin meant. Asked what her main feeling was following the talks, pensioner Sofiya said: "Uncertainty." "It's interesting what will happen to us, not only to our families, but our country," said the 72-year-old, who declined to give her surname. Like many, Sofiya saw no real progress from last week's talks -- the first direct negotiations on the conflict in more than three years. "I don't know how to express this, but I would like calm and peace," she said. Moscow has ramped up military censorship amid its Ukraine offensive, threatening years in prison for those who criticise or question the campaign. Zelensky said Russia was not serious about talks and is trying to "buy time" to continue its offensive. Putin was indeed hoping to advance more on the ground and will not "miss the opportunity" for a summer offensive, said Russian analyst Konstantin Kalachev. He called the Trump call a "tactical victory" for the Russian leader. "Russia is hoping to push them (Ukrainian forces) this summer," Kalachev said. "There will be no peace, while Russia has not yet used the option of a final offensive," he said, highlighting the prospect of a summer ground campaign. - 'No other way' - Though Putin said both sides should be ready to make "compromises", few were forthcoming from the Kremlin or on the streets of Moscow. "I believe that Odesa, Kharkiv, Nikolayev (Mykolaiv), Kyiv should be ours," said another pensioner, 70-year-old Marina, who also declined to give her surname, reeling off a string of Ukrainian cities that Russia has not formally claimed. Russian state TV said Moscow's negotiators threatened in Istanbul to seize more land if Ukraine does not pull its troops out of the Donetsk, Lugansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions that Moscow claims to have annexed. "If the four regions will not be recognised in the nearest future, the next time there will be six regions," said state TV presenter Yevgeny Popov. Moscow's chief negotiator Vladimir Medinsky later evoked Russia's 21-year war with Sweden in the 18th century, hinting Moscow was ready for a long fight. Marina, too, said she would support Russia to fight on, even as thousands of Russian soldiers have been killed. "Of course, it is a big shame that our people are also dying," she told AFP. "But there is no other way." bur/jhb
