US government hours from shutdown, as lawmakers scrabble for solutions

US government shutdown looms as lawmakers struggle to reach a deal to avoid closure. Republican Speaker Kevin McCarthy proposes a last-minute stopgap measure to keep the government open for another 45 days at current spending levels, but without aid for Ukraine, a major point of contention for Democrats. If the bill passes, hardline Republicans threaten to remove McCarthy from his post. The shutdown could lead to delayed salaries for federal employees and military personnel, closed national parks, disruptions in air travel, and potential delays in infrastructure improvements. It also raises concerns about US support for Ukraine.