US shutdown looms after Trump and Democrats end meeting without a deal

The ongoing negotiations between President Trump and Democratic leaders to avert a partial government shutdown have hit a stalemate. Following a meeting at the White House, both sides reported significant differences remain unresolved. Democrats stated that "very large differences" still exist between the two parties, while Republicans accused the Democrats of "not doing the right thing." The primary point of contention appears to be Trump's demand for $5 billion in funding for a border wall, which Democrats have staunchly opposed. With a looming deadline of December 21st, the prospect of a partial government shutdown looms large. The failure to reach an agreement could result in the closure of several federal agencies, disrupting government services and operations. Both sides have expressed a willingness to continue negotiations, but the deep divide on the border wall issue suggests that a compromise may be difficult to achieve before the deadline. The outcome of these discussions will have significant implications for the country's political landscape and the functioning of the federal government.