In a rare weekend sitting, members of the United States Senate gathered in Washington to deliberate on how to avert or end the ongoing government shutdown that has disrupted many federal operations.
The shutdown, caused by a budget stalemate between Democrats and Republicans, has led to the closure of several government offices and delayed payments for thousands of federal workers.
Senate leaders from both parties reportedly held intensive discussions aimed at reaching a compromise on spending bills before the crisis deepens further.
Observers say the weekend session underscores the urgency and political pressure lawmakers are facing, especially as public frustration grows over the continued impasse.
President Donald Trump (current US President) has also urged Congress to act swiftly, emphasizing that the shutdown is hurting “ordinary Americans and the nation’s economy.”
Negotiations are expected to continue through Sunday, with hopes that both sides can agree on a deal to reopen the government early next week.