Trump’s bold start to his second term saw sweeping executive actions, including withdrawal from the Paris Agreement and WHO. He emphasized “peace through strength,” while pausing foreign aid for review and proposing higher NATO spending thresholds. These moves signal a renewed focus on US national interests.
Withdrawal from International Agreements
Trump withdrew the US from the Paris Climate Agreement, citing its inconsistency with American values and financial priorities. He also exited the World Health Organization, reflecting his revived “America First” doctrine.
In his inauguration speech, Trump emphasized “peace through strength,” echoing Ronald Reagan’s approach. He promised to measure success by wars avoided and ended.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised Trump’s peace-oriented policy but noted details of a Russia-Ukraine peace plan remain unclear. Trump announced plans to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin soon to discuss a ceasefire.
Decisions on Israel and Foreign Aid
Trump cast doubt on the durability of the recent Israel-Hamas ceasefire. While he credited his administration for the deal, he reversed Biden-era sanctions on Israeli settlers accused of violence against Palestinians. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly influenced this decision before Trump’s inauguration.
Trump also paused all US foreign aid for 90 days to review its alignment with national interests. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will oversee decisions on aid distribution. Trump demanded aid programs answer if they make America safer, stronger, or more prosperous.
NATO Spending and Trade Tariffs
Trump criticized NATO members for insufficient defense spending, singling out Spain. He suggested raising the NATO spending threshold to 5% of GDP, well above current levels.
Despite campaign rhetoric, Trump postponed tariffs on Canada and Mexico. However, he announced new tariffs on Canadian goods beginning in February.
Trump’s first-day actions underline his commitment to reshaping US policy, focusing on national strength, self-interest, and assertive global leadership and diplomacy.