The United States government entered a shutdown after the Senate failed to pass a last-minute funding bill, halting some federal operations for the first time since 2018.

The shutdown, triggered by a deadlock between Republicans and Democrats, will temporarily suspend certain government services, while essential workers continue to operate—some without pay— and others are placed on unpaid leave.

Earlier, President Donald Trump warned of mass and “irreversible” firings of federal employees if the shutdown occurred, heightening tensions on Capitol Hill.

Republican Senator John Thune stated the party would not be “taken hostage,” while Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer accused Republicans of spreading “lies” about the situation.

Global financial markets have largely remained steady, treating the shutdown as a temporary disruption rather than a major economic shock, according to analysts.

SMS/