Foreign & Economic Policy
U.S.–China trade deal advances: Trump announced a deal with China is “very close,” while threatening new tariffs (15% → 35%) on the EU if it fails to meet its $600 billion investment commitments. Semiconductor and pharmaceutical tariffs are also being phased in to boost domestic production .
India faces escalating tariffs: Trump signaled further tariff hikes on India over its continued purchase of Russian oil, intensifying tensions despite earlier warm bilateral relations .
Crackdown on transshipment loopholes: U.S. Customs has instituted a 40% tariff on goods imported through third countries to evade Chinese tariffs—a policy targeting Southeast Asia’s export routes .
🔹 Diplomacy & International Conflict
Ukraine ceasefire push in Moscow: Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, arrived in Moscow for high-stakes talks ahead of a Friday deadline. Failure to reach an agreement would trigger new U.S. sanctions .
Trump–Zelenskiy communications: The U.S. and Ukrainian leaders discussed fresh sanctions on Russia and enhanced arms cooperation, underscoring deepening collaboration .
🔹 Domestic Affairs & Governance
DC federal takeover threat: In response to a violent juvenile crime incident, Trump warned he may federalize Washington, D.C., and prosecute offenders as adults starting at age 14. The announcement followed an attack on a former DOGE employee known as “Big Balls" .
Banks under political fire: Trump claimed that JPMorgan and Bank of America rejected over $1 billion in his deposits and accused them of discriminating against conservatives—teasing imminent executive action against such institutions .
White House construction sighting: Trump was spotted walking across the roof of the West Wing, briefly explaining it pertained to a future $200 million White House ballroom he’s funding himself .
🔹 Political Strategy & Succession
On running again: likely not: Trump told CNBC he “probably will not” pursue a third presidential term, noting that the 22nd Amendment prohibits it—but allies have floated potential legal workarounds .
J.D. Vance as MAGA heir apparent: Trump identified Vice President J.D. Vance as the most likely successor to lead the MAGA
movement and possibly run in 2028, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio mentioned as a JV running mate option .
Massive midterm fundraising haul: Since his re‑election, Trump and the RNC have raised a record-setting $1.4 billion to support GOP efforts in the 2026 midterms, positioning Vance in a key financial leadership role .
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