Tue Jan 21 16:32:57 IST 2025: ## Trump’s Second Term Begins with Sweeping Changes to US Foreign Policy
**Washington D.C.** – In his first hours in office, President Donald Trump initiated a dramatic shift in US foreign policy, marked by a series of executive orders prioritizing an “America First” approach. Trump signed orders withdrawing the US from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Paris Climate Accord, and threatened 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico, effective potentially as early as February 1st, accusing them of failing to curb illegal immigration and drug trafficking.
The President also announced a 75-day pause on a TikTok ban, contingent on its Chinese parent company agreeing to a 50% US stake. He further initiated a 90-day freeze on foreign aid disbursements, pending review by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Other actions included revoking sanctions against Israeli settlers in the West Bank, removing Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism, and signaling a potential military response to perceived Chinese influence over the Panama Canal.
In a wide-ranging press conference, Trump expressed skepticism about the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, hinted at further trade measures against the European Union, and revealed plans for a new “External Revenue Service” to collect tariffs. He downplayed expectations for a swift resolution to the Ukraine conflict, indicating a planned meeting with President Putin. While acknowledging the destruction in Gaza, Trump suggested potential reconstruction opportunities. He also voiced confidence in brokering a normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel. Throughout his pronouncements, Trump consistently emphasized prioritizing US interests above all else.
International responses were swift, with the EU stating its readiness to defend its interests and Canada vowing to respond to any US actions. Trump’s inauguration marks a significant moment, given he is both the oldest and first convicted felon to hold the US presidency.
First Piper 