In a whirlwind of activities, President Donald Trump made headlines as he interacted with foreign leaders and introduced substantial policy shifts. Here’s a recap of ten pivotal developments from his administration this week.
Trump's Week of Diplomatic Engagements and Domestic Policies
Trump's Week of Diplomatic Engagements and Domestic Policies
This past week has seen President Trump involved in crucial meetings with global leaders and significant domestic announcements.
1. Conducted His First Cabinet Meeting
President Trump held his inaugural cabinet meeting on Wednesday, which featured billionaire advisor Elon Musk in attendance. A significant topic of discussion was Musk's initiative for the Department of Government Efficiency to propose a notable reduction in federal workforce numbers, with agencies mandated to submit plans to cut employees by mid-March.
2. Engaged with Macron at the White House
French President Emmanuel Macron was welcomed at the White House, coinciding with the anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Macron expressed that Trump had valid reasons to resume dialogue with Russian President Vladimir Putin, marking a shift from the previous strategy of isolation. However, he did not secure any firm U.S. commitments for European security.
3. Discussed Trade with UK Prime Minister
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer met with Trump to deliberate on trade agreements and U.S. security commitments for Ukraine. Trump indicated a "very good chance" for a trade deal without tariffs, suggesting it could materialize swiftly.
4. Received an Invitation from King Charles III
During discussions, Sir Keir presented Trump with a letter from King Charles III, inviting him for a second state visit. Trump, visibly surprised, accepted the invitation, deeming it an “honor” to visit the UK.
5. Collaborated with Ukraine on Rare Minerals
A preliminary deal was crafted between the U.S. and Ukraine concerning access to Ukraine's rare earth mineral deposits, anticipated to be signed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Washington. There remains no agreement on American security guarantees as of yet, despite Trump softening his earlier critical stance on Zelensky.
6. Shared a Provocative AI Video of Gaza
Trump circulated a debated AI-generated video depicting Gaza as a luxurious resort under U.S. management, igniting a social media uproar following his controversial plan for Gaza's redevelopment as the “riviera” of the Middle East.
7. Addressed Rising Egg Prices
Responding to the soaring costs of eggs due to a bird flu outbreak, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced a $1 billion plan to aid farmers, focusing on biosecurity, vaccine development, and financial relief programs.
8. Launched a $5 Million Visa Scheme
Trump introduced a "gold card" visa plan priced at $5 million for wealthy individuals seeking permanent residency in the U.S., promoting it as a way to create jobs and boost the economy.
9. Advanced Spending Agenda
In a significant legislative move, the House narrowly approved a multi-trillion dollar spending bill supporting Trump’s economic plans, which includes vast tax cuts, although it may add to the national debt.
10. Extended Super Bowl Celebration Invitations
Trump announced plans to invite the Philadelphia Eagles to the White House in celebration of their recent Super Bowl victory. Despite past speculation of the team declining, they are reportedly preparing to attend this time.
President Trump held his inaugural cabinet meeting on Wednesday, which featured billionaire advisor Elon Musk in attendance. A significant topic of discussion was Musk's initiative for the Department of Government Efficiency to propose a notable reduction in federal workforce numbers, with agencies mandated to submit plans to cut employees by mid-March.
2. Engaged with Macron at the White House
French President Emmanuel Macron was welcomed at the White House, coinciding with the anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Macron expressed that Trump had valid reasons to resume dialogue with Russian President Vladimir Putin, marking a shift from the previous strategy of isolation. However, he did not secure any firm U.S. commitments for European security.
3. Discussed Trade with UK Prime Minister
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer met with Trump to deliberate on trade agreements and U.S. security commitments for Ukraine. Trump indicated a "very good chance" for a trade deal without tariffs, suggesting it could materialize swiftly.
4. Received an Invitation from King Charles III
During discussions, Sir Keir presented Trump with a letter from King Charles III, inviting him for a second state visit. Trump, visibly surprised, accepted the invitation, deeming it an “honor” to visit the UK.
5. Collaborated with Ukraine on Rare Minerals
A preliminary deal was crafted between the U.S. and Ukraine concerning access to Ukraine's rare earth mineral deposits, anticipated to be signed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Washington. There remains no agreement on American security guarantees as of yet, despite Trump softening his earlier critical stance on Zelensky.
6. Shared a Provocative AI Video of Gaza
Trump circulated a debated AI-generated video depicting Gaza as a luxurious resort under U.S. management, igniting a social media uproar following his controversial plan for Gaza's redevelopment as the “riviera” of the Middle East.
7. Addressed Rising Egg Prices
Responding to the soaring costs of eggs due to a bird flu outbreak, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced a $1 billion plan to aid farmers, focusing on biosecurity, vaccine development, and financial relief programs.
8. Launched a $5 Million Visa Scheme
Trump introduced a "gold card" visa plan priced at $5 million for wealthy individuals seeking permanent residency in the U.S., promoting it as a way to create jobs and boost the economy.
9. Advanced Spending Agenda
In a significant legislative move, the House narrowly approved a multi-trillion dollar spending bill supporting Trump’s economic plans, which includes vast tax cuts, although it may add to the national debt.
10. Extended Super Bowl Celebration Invitations
Trump announced plans to invite the Philadelphia Eagles to the White House in celebration of their recent Super Bowl victory. Despite past speculation of the team declining, they are reportedly preparing to attend this time.
