What we’re watching Wednesday

Reaction to proposed congressional budget deal

Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wis., and Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., unveil proposed budget deal that would replace $63 billion in sequester cuts with $85 billion in targeted cuts and new revenues from fees.

Top Republican leaders and President Barack Obama support the budget deal but there are many Republicans and Democrats who are skeptical or less than enthused.

U.S. criticizes Ukraine for actions against protestors

Security forces withdrew after protesters resisted overnight move to oust them from Independence Square in Kiev on Tuesday.

Asst. Sec. of State Victoria Nuland visited the square and talked with protestors on Wednesday morning, and treated them to cookies. Nuland criticized Ukranian President Viktor Yanukovich for the actions taken against protestors.

Public gets chance to pay respects to Mandela

Mandela’s body lies in state for three days, beginning Wednesday, at the government Union Buildings in Pretoria, the base of the South African government. Thousands are expected to file past his casket and pay their respects.

U.S. halts aid to northern Syria after Islamist rebels take over

U.S. suspended non-lethal aid deliveries to northern Syria after Islamic Front rebels seized Free Syrian Army headquarters and warehouses.