Donald Trump has made a dramatic return to the Oval Office, expressing what he described as a profound sense of satisfaction upon re-entering the remodeled space after his inauguration. Among his initial actions, he declared a "national emergency" at the southern border, paving the way for deploying U.S. troops to the area. The declaration was part of a broader strategy to address what he views as critical issues facing the nation.
In his first days back in office, Trump took decisive steps to combat drug-related violence by designating drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. This move aligns with his administration's focus on enhancing national security and curbing illegal activities. Moreover, he signed an executive order to withdraw the United States from the United Nations health agency, citing concerns over what he perceives as unfair treatment of the U.S. on the global stage.
"World Health ripped us off, everybody rips off the United States. It’s not going to happen any more," – Donald Trump
Trump's administration has also called for mass government firings, signaling a significant shake-up in federal staffing. In a bold environmental policy shift, Trump signed an executive order to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris climate accords for a second time, labeling it an "unfair one-sided Paris climate accord rip off." This decision has drawn international attention and concern, particularly from China.
"Today’s announcement by the U.S. government to withdraw from the Paris Agreement is devastating for the future of the planet and those facing the most significant disruption to their lives and livelihoods due to climate change," – Tjada D’Oyen McKenna
The withdrawal has sparked reactions globally, with critics highlighting the urgency of addressing climate change. Tjada D’Oyen McKenna, a prominent advocate for climate action, warned of dire consequences if global leadership retreats from climate commitments.
"The decision comes just after 2024 was named the hottest year on record and is a huge step backward at a time when the world urgently needs greater ambition and clear leadership to address the climate crisis, not retreat," – Tjada D’Oyen McKenna
In addition, Trump's recent flurry of executive orders includes pardoning 1,500 defendants, notably those involved in the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. This action has reignited debates about justice and accountability in the aftermath of one of the most tumultuous events in recent American history.
The president has also targeted immigration policies by signing an executive order to crack down on unauthorized crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border. This initiative is accompanied by a message that frames immigration as an invasion by "millions of criminal aliens" who will be sent home. To further bolster these efforts, Trump declared a state of emergency to deploy military forces at the southern border.
"Because of the gravity and emergency of this present danger and imminent threat, it is necessary for the Armed Forces to take all appropriate action to assist the Department of Homeland Security in obtaining full operational control of the southern border," – Donald Trump
Among other noteworthy actions, Trump signed an executive order revoking birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants. This policy shift marks a significant change in how citizenship is determined in the United States.
The renaming of geographic landmarks has also been part of Trump's agenda. He signed orders to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America and Denali to Mount McKinley, stirring discussions on national identity and historical legacy.
In foreign policy remarks, Trump labeled the Panama Canal as a "foolish gift" to Panama that "should never have been made." This statement underscores his administration's stance on national sovereignty and historical decisions.
Trump's executive actions have left a considerable impact on both domestic and international fronts. His decision to pull out of the Paris climate deal was met with concern from China, with spokesperson Guo Jiakun expressing unease over this development.
“Climate change is no longer a distant threat; it is a daily reality with devastating impacts for hundreds of millions of people who have contributed the least to climate change — from severe droughts in the Horn of Africa to deadly floods in Pakistan," – Tjada D’Oyen McKenna
As Trump's presidency unfolds, key aides continue to advocate for sweeping changes across various sectors. The administration's aggressive approach to governance reflects its commitment to reshaping policy landscapes according to its vision.
“Now it’s our turn to shine! It’s our turn to occupy Brussels!” – Viktor Orbán