Former president Donald Trump spent an appearance on CBS taking questions about a US government shutdown that has entered its second week, his trade agenda that has roiled global markets, and a string of international crises that require urgent diplomatic attention. The interview came as lawmakers in Washington trade accusations and as other leaders, inside and outside government, assess the practical consequences of the standoff.

The domestic effects were immediate and visible. Companies and federal contractors reported layoffs and furloughs linked to the lapse in appropriations, a phenomenon that Columbus County prosecutor Vance characterized as part of shutdown "chaos." Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer urged direct talks across the aisle, calling a meeting "only way" to resolve the impasse. Some legislators suggested a deal could arrive quickly if Republicans engage more seriously, with Representative Kelly saying the shutdown could end this week if the GOP negotiates.

Economic anxiety reached beyond the beltway. European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde warned that the wider economy had yet to show the full effects of the tariff environment that Mr. Trump champions, saying in a recent remark that she had "Yet to feel the pain" on Trump tariffs. Investors and trading partners are watching for any sign that protectionist measures, paired with domestic fiscal uncertainty, could undermine fragile recovery dynamics across Europe and emerging markets.

The shutdown also has national security and foreign policy ripple effects. Lawmakers have raised alarms about readiness and intelligence gaps during funding interruptions. Representative Himes said Congress was told "nothing" about recent strikes in Venezuela, a remark that highlights executive legislative friction over the oversight of kinetic operations. Senator Murphy framed the moment as fundamentally about bipartisanship, saying the United States needs "two parties" negotiating to carry through complex national security decisions.

On the Middle East front, an Egyptian official expressed confidence in a Gaza plan aimed at addressing humanitarian needs and easing tensions. The release of hostages remained a central humanitarian development. Multiple sources indicated hostages were set to be released Monday, a development that could reshape diplomatic negotiations and the regional balance if carried out as scheduled. Senators and former officials, including figures tied to Israel peace efforts, have been active in private diplomacy as well as public commentary.

Mr. Trump answered questions on the nexus of these issues without offering new legislative prescriptions, instead reiterating broad positions on trade and border policy while criticizing both parties for failing to reach a budgetary compromise. The interview will likely become a reference point for campaign messaging and for lawmakers weighing whether to pursue a short term funding measure or a more comprehensive package.

As the political theater in Washington continues, both domestic institutions and international partners are bracing for consequences. Lawmakers and officials from Rome to Cairo are watching closely, and humanitarian and economic costs will rise the longer decisions are delayed. The only path sketched repeatedly by Washington leaders and international counterparts alike is a negotiated settlement that restores funding, stabilizes markets and allows coordinated action on pressing foreign policy crises.