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U.S. President Donald Trump has made numerous tariff threats since returning to office on January 20, ranging from a universal duty on imports to targeted tariffs on specific sectors or countries, in a bid to get others to meet his policy demands.
Trump on March 1 ordered a new trade investigation that could heap more tariffs on imported lumber, adding to existing duties on Canadian softwood lumber and 25% tariffs on all Canadian and Mexican goods.
A White House fact sheet said the order calls for new or updated agency guidance to facilitate increased timber production, including quicker approvals for forestry projects under the Endangered Species Act.
"If there's one thing that we've learned from the threat of President Trump's tariffs is our relationship with the United States has changed forever,” Canadian Forests Minister for British Columbia, Ravi Parmar, said in an interview on Wednesday (March 12).
Parmar explained that Canada’s market share will decline, and the U.S. supply ‘hasn’t technically increased’, while Russian lumber will now enter the U.S. market with ‘zero penalties’.
"This tariff, this tax, is really a tax on middle class Americans. Middle class Americans who just want to build homes in their communities, and middle class Americans who at a time in their dealing with wildfires, floods and hurricanes, are going to have to pay more, in some cases 20 to 30 to 40% more just to build their home or rebuild their home." said Parmar.
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President Donald Trump discusses a wide range of issues aboard Air Force One, including optimistic outlooks on U.S.-Ukraine talks in Saudi Arabia and potential tariff adjustments with Russia. He addresses concerns over joint military exercises and shares insights on the likelihood of a government shutdown. Trump also updates on ongoing discussions regarding the sale of TikTok, highlighting the administration's approach amid regulatory pressures. Stay informed with the latest updates directly from the President's insights.
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Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi warned that China will "resolutely counter" U.S. pressure on tariffs and the fentanyl issue, criticising major powers for "bullying the weak" in a veiled swipe at U.S. policy. His remarks followed Washington’s 10% tariff hike on Chinese imports over fentanyl concerns. Wang urged the U.S. not to "repay kindness with grievances," citing China's past assistance, without specifics. He defended China’s innovation amid U.S. tech restrictions and reiterated Beijing’s call for a "fair, lasting, and binding" Ukraine peace deal. Despite global pressure, China has not criticised Russia. Wang made these remarks during China's annual parliamentary meeting.
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On March 6, President Donald Trump stated that the U.S. would not defend NATO countries that do not contribute sufficiently to their own defense. He criticized NATO member states for not paying enough and warned that delinquent countries would not receive American protection. Trump acknowledged NATO’s potential but stressed the need for reform and better thinking within the alliance. Concurrently, former Ukrainian army chief Valeriy Zaluzhnyi expressed concerns that NATO might cease to exist, citing the White House’s questioning of Western unity and the shifting responsibility for Europe’s defense to its own forces. European Union leaders and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy met in Brussels amid rising fears that Russia, emboldened by its invasion of Ukraine, could target an EU country next. This uncertainty has driven dramatic defense policy decisions in Europe, with increasing doubts about the U.S.'s willingness to defend Europe in the face of Russian aggression.
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The United States and Ukraine failed to sign a critical minerals agreement after a Friday meeting between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskiy devolved into a fiery exchange, fracturing relations between the two countries.
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A tense Oval Office meeting between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy ended in chaos as Trump, alongside Vice President JD Vance, accused Zelenskyy of being “disrespectful” and abruptly canceled a minerals trade deal. The agreement would have granted the U.S. greater access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals. The discussion turned heated when Zelenskyy warned against trusting Putin, prompting Trump to shout, “You’re gambling with World War III.” Trump and Vance criticized Zelenskyy as ungrateful, warning about future U.S. support. The fallout could have major global implications, straining U.S.-Ukraine ties amid the ongoing war with Russia.
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A high-stakes meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky saw tensions rise as Trump issued a stern ultimatum, warning, "Either make a deal or we are out." Zelensky responded firmly, asserting Ukraine’s resilience. Despite the heated exchange, they proceeded with talks on a minerals trade deal, granting the U.S. access to Ukraine’s resources in exchange for investment. Kyiv also seeks security assurances. The White House removed a TASS reporter from the meeting. Notably, Trump’s stance on Zelensky shifted from calling him a “dictator” to expressing respect ahead of the meeting.
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Germany's conservatives, led by Friedrich Merz, win the national election, while the far-right AfD makes historic gains. Olaf Scholz concedes defeat as Europe watches closely. What’s next for Germany?
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A federal judge ruled in favor of Donald Trump's administration in a lawsuit challenging Elon Musk's sweeping cost-cutting powers as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Democratic attorneys general sought to block Musk’s authority, citing concerns over job cuts and data access at federal agencies, but their request was denied. As legal battles over DOGE continue, what’s next for Musk’s federal overhaul?
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The US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk and created by President Donald Trump, has announced significant cuts to various international expenditures. These cuts are aimed at reducing wasteful spending and improving governance. Among the canceled allocations are $21 million for voter turnout in India, $22 million for Moldova’s inclusive political process, and $29 million for political strengthening in Bangladesh. Other cuts include funding for projects in Nepal, Cambodia, and Mozambique, as well as $32 million for the Prague Civil Society Centre and $47 million for improving learning outcomes in Asia. The department’s post on X revealed that these funds were initially intended for various international development initiatives but were deemed unnecessary in the current context. The announcement follows a visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the US, where discussions on space, technology, and governance took place with both President Trump and Musk.
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After US President Donald Trump’s threat of an immediate cancellation of the Gaza ceasefire if all remaining Israeli hostages were not freed by midday Saturday, Hamas dismissed the warning, stating that future releases would only occur if all parties upheld their commitments under the truce.
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On January 9, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court allowed Donald Trump to proceed with his sentencing for criminal charges related to hush money paid to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. In a 5-4 decision, the Court rejected Trump's bid to block the sentencing, scheduled for January 10, just 10 days before his second presidential inauguration. Trump faces charges of falsifying business records to cover up the $130,000 payment, made to silence Daniels ahead of the 2016 election, which Trump denies. This marks the first time a U.S. president, former or sitting, has been convicted of a crime. Judge Juan Merchan ordered the sentencing, which may include an "unconditional discharge," avoiding jail time or other penalties. Trump’s legal team argued the case should never have been brought, while Merchan criticized Trump’s attacks on the justice system, stating they influenced his decision to move forward with the case.
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Donald Trump announces a $20 billion investment in U.S. data centers by Damac Properties Chairman Hussain Sajwani. The project aims to boost AI and tech infrastructure across multiple states, with Trump promising faster approvals for major investors.
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On January 6, 2025, Vice President Kamala Harris presided over the formal certification of Donald Trump's election victory, clearing the way for his inauguration on January 20. The ceremony, held in a joint session of the House and Senate, marked a stark contrast to the violent Capitol riot four years earlier, when Trump supporters attempted to block the certification of his 2020 loss to Joe Biden. Trump, who received 312 electoral votes compared to Harris's 226, continues to falsely claim his 2020 defeat was the result of widespread fraud, a sentiment he maintained during his 2024 campaign. Harris, in her ceremonial role as president of the Senate, stood composed as she oversaw the electoral vote certification. She emphasized the significance of the peaceful transfer of power and expressed her belief that American democracy remains strong through collective effort and dedication. The certification process went smoothly, reinforcing the democratic norm.
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A top U.N. official, Rosemary DiCarlo, called on world powers and Iran to urgently restore the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which lifted sanctions on Iran in return for restrictions on its nuclear program. The U.S. withdrew from the deal in 2018 under President Donald Trump, prompting Iran to gradually reduce its commitments. European and Iranian diplomats met recently to explore ways to ease tensions, especially regarding Iran's nuclear activities, before Trump's potential return to the White House. DiCarlo emphasized the importance of timely action, as the Security Council had enshrined the deal in a 2015 resolution. Britain, France, and Germany warned they could trigger the "snap back" of international sanctions on Iran if necessary to prevent nuclear weapon development. However, this option expires on October 18 next year. The IAEA reported that Iran has been rapidly accelerating uranium enrichment to levels close to weapons-grade purity.
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Meta, led by Mark Zuckerberg, donated $1 million to President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration fund, with Zuckerberg reportedly seeking a more active role in Trump’s tech policy. This donation came after Zuckerberg met with Trump at Mar-a-Lago. Meanwhile, Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, who praised Trump’s courage following the Pennsylvania assassination attempt in July, is also expected to donate to Trump’s inauguration fund and visit the president-elect. Additionally, Google CEO Sundar Pichai is planning to meet with Trump. The outreach from tech leaders like Zuckerberg, Bezos, and Pichai signals potential collaboration with the incoming administration on tech-related matters.
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In an extended interview, President-elect Donald Trump discussed various policy areas, signaling shifts in tone and approach since his campaign. On the economy, he acknowledged that his planned tariffs might raise prices for American consumers, a departure from his earlier promises to reduce inflation and ease financial burdens. He also softened his stance on the Federal Reserve, stating he had no intention of asking Chairman Jerome Powell to step down. On immigration, Trump reaffirmed his commitment to sealing the U.S. southern border and deporting millions of undocumented individuals, including potential deportation of Dreamers, though he emphasized not wanting to separate families. He also suggested that birthright citizenship could be ended. Regarding foreign policy, Trump indicated that Ukraine should expect reduced U.S. aid under his administration. He reiterated his goal to end the Ukraine-Russia war but gave no specifics and was evasive about his conversations with Russian President Putin.
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In his first post-election television interview, President-elect Donald Trump outlined key priorities for his second term. He announced plans to take executive action on his first day in office to end birthright citizenship, a move expected to face legal challenges. Trump reiterated his plan to deport all illegal immigrants, prioritizing those convicted of crimes, and expressed interest in a future deal to protect Dreamers. He confirmed he would pardon January 6 rioters immediately upon taking office. Trump also discussed domestic policy, including his stance on Social Security, Medicare, and the federal minimum wage, while acknowledging challenges with the Affordable Care Act. On foreign policy, Trump indicated a tough approach on NATO, hinted at reducing U.S. military aid to Ukraine, and suggested tariffs could increase costs for American families. He also voiced a unifying message, pledging to treat all Americans equally, regardless of their political support.
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President-elect Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Hamas on December 2, 2024, demanding the immediate release of hostages held in Gaza. Trump stated that if the hostages were not freed by the time of his inauguration on January 20, 2025, there would be "all hell to pay" in the Middle East. The hostages were taken during the deadly Hamas-led attacks on October 7, 2023, which resulted in over 1,200 deaths in Israel. Around 100 hostages remain in captivity, with some confirmed dead. Hamas has linked the release of hostages to an end to Israel’s military operations and a full withdrawal from Gaza. Despite efforts by the Biden administration to broker peace, including a fragile ceasefire with Hezbollah, Hamas has shown little willingness to negotiate. The war has had devastating consequences, with over 44,400 Palestinians killed and Gaza's infrastructure largely destroyed. Trump’s threat adds to the growing tension in the region.
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On November 19, 2024, SpaceX launched its sixth Starship test flight from Boca Chica, Texas, marking a significant milestone in its mission to land astronauts on the moon and send crews to Mars. The 400-foot-tall Starship system successfully launched, but the Super Heavy booster unexpectedly made a controlled splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico instead of returning to its launchpad. Meanwhile, Starship traveled around the Earth before performing a daytime splashdown in the Indian Ocean. This test flight followed the success of last month's demonstration of Starship's innovative catch-landing method, which is key to its reusable design. Elon Musk had indicated that the catch-landing in this test would be "faster/harder." U.S. President-elect Donald Trump attended the launch, signaling a strengthening relationship between him and Musk. This alliance could benefit Musk with government contracts and influence, as he plays a role in helping improve government efficiency.
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Trump warned shortly before his U.S. presidential victory that the 27-nation bloc will have to "pay a big price" for not buying enough American exports
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Donald Trump claimed victory in the 2024 U.S. presidential election, edging out Kamala Harris after securing crucial battleground states like Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia. In his victory speech, Trump described the win as an unprecedented political achievement for the country. World leaders quickly congratulated him, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, French President Emmanuel Macron, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. European Union leaders, such as Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel, also expressed support, despite concerns about potential challenges in U.S.-EU relations due to Trump’s past policies on NATO, climate change, and trade. While European officials hoped for continued cooperation, Trump’s stance on these issues, particularly his criticism of NATO and trade relations with Europe, has raised doubts. Trump’s victory marks a political comeback, with his approach to foreign relations likely to shape global alliances moving forward.
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Donald Trump stumped for votes in the battleground state of Michigan, hitting his Democratic rival, Kamala Harris on immigration and Friday's jobs report.
America’s employers added just 12,000 jobs in October, a total that economists say was held down by the effects of strikes and hurricanes that left many workers temporarily off payrolls.
The report provided a somewhat blurry view of the job market at the end of a presidential race that has pivoted heavily on voters’ feelings about the economy.
Referencing the report at a rally in Warren, Trump said Harris and President Joe Biden had "driven our economy off a cliff".
"And if she gets four more years, your family's never, you are never going to recover," he said.
Last month’s hiring gain was down significantly from the 223,000 jobs that were added in September.
But economists have estimated that Hurricanes Helene and Milton, combined with strikes at Boeing and elsewhere, had the effect of pushing down net job growth by tens of thousands of jobs in October.
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Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump took the stage at a rally in Milwaukee on Friday, an hour later than scheduled.
Trump kicked off his rally by asking the crowd what he called a simple question: "Are you better off now than you were four years ago?"
"No!" the crowd, which has nearly filled the Fiserv Forum, roared.
Trump seemed pleased with the turnout in Milwaukee, complimenting the size of the crowd several times.
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The White House is under scrutiny after altering the transcript of President Biden's remarks about Trump supporters, sparking backlash from federal stenographers. Biden’s statement, originally criticising "supporters" of Trump, was changed to target “supporter’s” comments, implying he was only criticising comedian Tony Hinchcliffe’s remarks on Puerto Rico. The transcript released by the White House press office, however, rendered the quote with an apostrophe, reading “supporter’s” rather than “supporters,” which aides said pointed to Biden criticizing Hinchcliffe, not the millions of Americans who are supporting Trump for president. House Republicans are considering an investigation, citing concerns over transcript integrity and potential violation of the Presidential Records Act. Meanwhile, Vice President Harris distanced herself from Biden’s comments, advocating for political respect.
