Tue Jan 21 15:14:51 UTC 2025: **Trump’s Second Inauguration: A Day of Sweeping Executive Orders and International Tensions**

Washington, D.C. – Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States on Monday, marking the beginning of his second, non-consecutive term. The ceremony, moved indoors due to unusually frigid weather, saw Trump take the oath inside the Capitol Rotunda. Incoming Vice President J.D. Vance was also sworn in.

Trump immediately began enacting his ambitious agenda, signing nearly 80 executive orders reversing policies enacted by the Biden administration. These actions covered a wide range of issues, including:

* **Immigration:** A significant crackdown on illegal immigration, including the deployment of military forces to the border, a broad ban on asylum, and efforts to end birthright citizenship. The CBP One entry program was shut down. Trump also vowed to deport “millions and millions” of undocumented immigrants.
* **Energy:** A declaration of a national energy emergency to expedite oil and gas production, reversing environmental protections and withdrawing the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement.
* **Trade:** Threats of 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports, potentially starting February 1st, causing concern among global markets. Investigations into unfair trade practices with China were also announced.
* **Personnel:** The dismissal of numerous Biden-appointed officials, with over 1,000 more facing potential dismissal.
* **Pardons:** Pardons were granted to numerous individuals charged in connection with the January 6th, 2021 Capitol riot.
* **Foreign Policy:** Withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO) and threats to reclaim the Panama Canal.

Trump’s actions immediately sparked international reactions:

* **Canada:** Prime Minister Justin Trudeau vowed a strong, reciprocal response to any imposed tariffs.
* **Mexico:** President Claudia Sheinbaum pledged to defend Mexico’s sovereignty while pursuing dialogue.
* **China:** The Chinese government voiced its support for the WHO and expressed concern about the U.S.’s withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, while also hoping for cooperation to resolve trade issues.
* **European Union:** EU chief Ursula von der Leyen called for negotiation and improved ties with China, while adopting a pragmatic approach towards the U.S.
* **Germany:** Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed cautious optimism while stressing the importance of cooperation.

The inauguration was attended by a number of global leaders, including External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar representing India. The event also saw the presence of several prominent tech billionaires, prompting Senator Bernie Sanders to allege that the billionaire class now controls the government. Elon Musk’s hand gesture during the celebrations drew criticism, with some likening it to a Nazi salute.

Trump’s second term has begun with a dramatic and decisive shift in U.S. policy, setting the stage for a potentially turbulent four years both domestically and internationally. The economic and political ramifications of his executive orders are expected to unfold in the coming weeks and months.

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