Trump Action Archive

Supporting reports

• US military fires attack drones on Iranian naval base at Bandar Abbas — The US military conducted a strike on Iran's Bandar Abbas naval base using one-way attack surface drones on July 12, 2026, according to video released by US Central Command. The strike resulted in explosions at the facility. This action represents an escalation in the exchange of fire between the US and Iran that prompted Senate Democrats to block the NDAA.
• Trump ordered airstrikes on Iran — In response to Iranian attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz, Trump ordered airstrikes against Iran. The strikes followed Iran's closure of the strait and attacks on commercial vessels near the Oman shoreline. Additional U.S. military strikes against Iran were launched on the night of July 12, 2026.
• US and Iranian forces exchanged heavy missile and drone assaults — US and Iranian forces conducted heavy exchanges of missiles and drone attacks over several days. Iran targeted US facilities across the Gulf and declared the Strait of Hormuz closed. Trump declared an end to a ceasefire but left the door open for negotiations. CENTCOM reported US forces struck 140 Iranian military targets on Saturday out of more than 300 during three nights of strikes to degrade Iran's ability to attack civilian mariners. Iran's Revolutionary Guards reported destroying a command center and drone hangars in Jordan, targeting a radar site in Kuwait, and attacking US aircraft carrier support platforms in Oman and a jet maintenance center in Qatar.
• Trump announced blockade of Iranian shipping and claimed U.S. will charge fees for Strait of Hormuz passage — At 10:16 a.m., Trump announced via social media that the U.S. is reinstating a blockade of Iranian ships and customers while keeping the Strait of Hormuz open to all other nations. Trump declared the U.S. will be "the Guardian of the Hormuz Strait" and will charge a 20% fee on all cargo shipped through the waterway to reimburse costs of providing security. This represents a resumption of hostilities against Iran following a June 17 memorandum of understanding that Trump now considers void.
• Trump Declares US Control Over Strait of Hormuz — Former President Donald Trump announced that the United States will take control of the Strait of Hormuz and impose a 20% cargo fee on vessels passing through. This declaration has significant implications for international trade and maritime law, potentially escalating tensions in the region and affecting global oil prices.
• Trump Reverses Strait of Hormuz Fee — President Donald Trump reversed his decision to impose a 20% "reimbursement fee" on the Strait of Hormuz less than a day after announcing it. The fee was intended to be levied on countries using the strategic waterway, but the quick reversal suggests significant backlash or reconsideration of the policy's implications.
• Trump administration announces blockade and cargo fee plan — The Trump administration announced a plan to reinstate a U.S. blockade of the Strait of Hormuz for Iranian ships and impose a 20% fee on all cargo passing through. This announcement, made by Trump on Truth Social, has led to a spike in energy prices. The plan's effectiveness in reopening the strait or reducing energy costs remains unclear. The administration's approach has not resolved the ongoing disruption in maritime traffic, which has been severely affected since the conflict began.
• U.S. offers insurance for tankers in the Strait of Hormuz — The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation announced it would insure losses up to $40 billion for tankers willing to transit the Strait of Hormuz. Despite this offer, most shippers remain unwilling to risk passage due to the ongoing threat from Iran's military tactics. The insurance initiative has not succeeded in restoring normal maritime traffic through the strait, which remains severely disrupted.
• Trump walked back military takeover of Strait of Hormuz, replacing toll fee with investment deals — Trump announced he was reversing his previous day's declaration that the U.S. military would seize the Strait of Hormuz and impose a 20% toll on cargo vessels. He stated he had decided instead to pursue trade and investment deals with Gulf States, claiming these would be "massive" but beneficial to those nations. Trump cited conversations with Middle Eastern leaders as the reason for the reversal, acknowledging the original plan was impractical and faced universal international opposition.
• Trump announced Iran blockade and Strait of Hormuz control — On July 15, Trump announced he was reimposing a blockade on Iran and that the United States would become "THE GUARDIAN OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT." Later the same day, he reversed course, claiming that Gulf allies had told him they would prefer to invest directly in the U.S. rather than pay tolls for strait passage.
• Trump announces blockade on Iran — President Trump announced the reimposition of a blockade on Iran, declaring the U.S. would act as the "guardian of the Hormuz Strait." This announcement follows a reversal of a previous proposal to charge Gulf allies for tolls, indicating a shift in U.S. foreign policy towards Iran.

Supporting reports

• Trump threatened renewed military action if ceasefire terms not met — By Wednesday night, Trump backed away from celebratory statements about the ceasefire and posted a lengthy threat that all U.S. military assets would remain in place around Iran until the "REAL AGREEMENT" was fully complied with. He threatened that if compliance did not occur, "the 'Shootin' Starts,' bigger, and better, and stronger than anyone has ever seen before," and reiterated demands that Iran have no nuclear weapons and the Strait of Hormuz remain open.
• Trump threatens military action against Iran while contradicting his own deal claims — Trump posted threats on Truth Social declaring that all U.S. ships, aircraft, and military personnel will remain positioned around Iran until the "REAL AGREEMENT" is fully complied with. He threatened that if compliance does not occur, "Shootin' Starts, bigger, and better, and stronger than anyone has ever seen before." Trump also announced that Iran agreed to no nuclear weapons and an open Strait of Hormuz—terms that directly contradict his simultaneous claim that the ten-point framework is a fake hoax, since those terms originate from that framework. He stated the U.S. military is "Loading Up and Resting, looking forward, actually, to its next Conquest."
• Trump threatened renewed military action against Iran — Trump posted on Truth Social that all U.S. ships, aircraft, and military personnel will remain in place around Iran with additional ammunition and weaponry for the "lethal prosecution and destruction" of Iran until the ceasefire agreement is fully complied with. He stated that if compliance does not occur, "the 'Shootin' Starts," bigger and stronger than ever before. He also reiterated that no nuclear weapons and an open Strait of Hormuz were agreed terms.

Supporting reports

• White House officials told Trump Iran's civilian infrastructure is legitimate wartime target — According to reporting by the Wall Street Journal, Trump's aides have been advising him that Iran's civilian infrastructure is a legitimate wartime target, contrary to expert consensus that such attacks are illegal under international law. Defense Secretary Hegseth has embraced this argument, claiming that attacking infrastructure would impede Iran's nuclear weapons development. A White House official added that destroying electric plants could foment civil unrest to further hinder nuclear production.

Supporting reports

• Trump meets with oil executives and promises "total safety" for Venezuela investments — President Trump held a White House roundtable with oil industry executives from Chevron, ExxonMobil, and ConocoPhillips on Friday, promising "total safety, total security" to persuade them to invest $100 billion in Venezuela's infrastructure following the toppling of Nicolás Maduro. Trump stated the investment would come from private companies, not federal funds, and warned executives that competitors stood ready to replace them. Later that day, Trump signed an executive order blocking courts or creditors from impounding revenue from Venezuelan oil sales held in US treasury accounts, directing those funds toward Venezuelan "peace, prosperity and stability."
• Trump signed executive order declaring national emergency over Venezuelan oil revenue — On January 10, 2026, President Trump signed an executive order declaring a national emergency—his tenth in this term—stating that any use of revenue from the sale of Venezuelan oil to repay billions of dollars owed to oil companies "will materially harm the national security and foreign policy of the United States." The order asserted that such repayment would interfere with efforts to ensure economic and political stability in Venezuela and jeopardize U.S. foreign policy objectives including ending illegal immigration, stopping illicit narcotics, protecting against Iran and Hezbollah, and bringing stability to the Western Hemisphere. The order effectively placed control of Venezuelan oil revenue under executive authority.
• Trump told oil executives he would not repay historical losses from Venezuelan nationalization — At a meeting with oil executives on January 10, 2026, Trump stated that he would not use revenue from the sale of Venezuelan oil to repay billions of dollars owed to U.S. oil companies for losses from the 2007 nationalization of their Venezuelan assets. Trump said: "We're not going to look at what people lost in the past, because that was their fault. That was a different president. You're going to make a lot of money, but we're not going to go back."

Supporting reports

• Trump declares Venezuela a "foreign terrorist organization" and orders naval blockade — Trump announced a "total and complete blockade" of oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuela and designated the Venezuelan government a "foreign terrorist organization" (FTO). The U.S. Navy deployed 11 ships, including an aircraft carrier, to the region. Legal experts note the FTO designation is legally murky because U.S. law targets non-state organizations, not sovereign governments. White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles stated Trump "wants to keep on blowing boats up until Maduro cries uncle," suggesting regime change rather than counterterrorism as the objective. The administration seized one tanker carrying 1.85 million barrels of Venezuelan crude valued at approximately $95 million.
• Trump declares "total and complete blockade" on Venezuelan oil tankers — On Truth Social, Trump declared a "TOTAL AND COMPLETE BLOCKADE" on all sanctioned oil tankers entering or departing Venezuela. Trump also warned Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro that the US "will not allow a Hostile Regime to take our Oil, Land, or any other Assets, all of which must be returned to the United States IMMEDIATELY."
• Trump orders naval blockade of sanctioned Venezuelan oil tankers — President Trump announced a "total and complete" blockade of all sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela, escalating pressure on Nicolás Maduro's government. The order follows weeks of military strikes in the region that have killed dozens and the recent U.S. seizure of a Venezuelan oil tanker carrying approximately 2 million barrels of crude. Trump stated the blockade aims to prevent Venezuela from funding drug trafficking. The Venezuelan government rejected the order as a "grotesque threat" and act of piracy; Democratic congressman Joaquin Castro called it an unauthorized act of war.
• Trump Announces Total Blockade of Venezuelan Oil Tankers — President Trump announced a total blockade of all sanctioned oil tankers going into and out of Venezuela, citing the Maduro regime's designation as a foreign terrorist organization. He claimed that the blockade is necessary to prevent the regime from financing terrorism and other criminal activities. This announcement follows military actions against small boats allegedly involved in drug trafficking.
• Trump orders total blockade of Venezuelan oil tankers and designates Maduro regime as foreign terrorist organization — Trump posted on social media that Venezuela is surrounded by the largest armada ever assembled in South American history and ordered a total and complete blockade of all sanctioned oil tankers going into and out of Venezuela. He claimed Venezuela stole U.S. oil, land, and other assets and demanded their immediate return. Trump designated the Maduro regime as a foreign terrorist organization, citing terrorism, drug smuggling, and human trafficking. He stated that illegal aliens and criminals sent by the Maduro regime during the Biden administration are being returned to Venezuela at a rapid pace.
• Trump administration expands travel ban to 39 countries — The Trump administration expanded its travel ban from 19 to 39 countries, including Afghanistan, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Syria, and others. The expanded ban also applies to people holding Palestinian-Authority-issued travel documents, effectively restricting Palestinian travel rights.

Supporting reports

• Trump declares national emergency to justify tariff authority — Trump declared a national emergency under the National Emergencies Act to justify imposing tariffs, citing the need to "increase our competitive edge, protect our sovereignty, and strengthen our national and economic security." This invocation of emergency powers allows him to bypass the constitutional requirement that Congress hold the power to impose tariffs. The declaration relies on the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to grant the president tariff authority during a declared emergency.
• Trump signed Executive Order 14257 imposing reciprocal tariffs on all imports, starting at 10 percent globally and escalating to country-specific rates on April 9, 2025, citing trade deficits as a national emergency. — President Trump signed Executive Order 14257 on April 2, 2025, declaring a national emergency based on persistent U.S. goods trade deficits and invoking the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and National Emergencies Act. The order imposes an initial 10 percent ad valorem duty on all imports effective April 5, 2025, escalating to country-specific rates (detailed in Annex I) on April 9, 2025, for designated trading partners. Exemptions include certain steel, aluminum, automobiles, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and critical minerals. The order authorizes the Secretary of Commerce and U.S. Trade Representative to modify duties based on trading partner retaliation or compliance with reciprocal trade alignment.
• Trump announces 10% universal tariff with higher rates on 60 countries — President Trump announced a 10% tariff on all U.S. imports, with higher rates on approximately 60 countries including China, Japan, Vietnam, South Korea, and the European Union. He made the announcement in a Rose Garden speech after stock market close. The announcement caused immediate market turmoil: Dow Jones futures fell over 1,000 points (2.5%) and S&P 500 futures dropped 3.6%. Trump framed the tariffs as addressing decades of unfair trade practices and promised they would create "the golden age of America."
• Trump signs reciprocal tariff executive order imposing 10% baseline duty on all imports — President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14206 on April 2, 2025, declaring a national emergency based on persistent U.S. goods trade deficits and imposing a 10% ad valorem duty on all imports effective April 5, 2025, with country-specific rates (ranging up to 60% for certain trading partners) taking effect April 9, 2025. The order cites the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and invokes national security and economic grounds, targeting what Trump characterizes as non-reciprocal trade practices, tariff asymmetries, and non-tariff barriers by trading partners.
• Trump signed Executive Order 14257 imposing reciprocal tariffs on all imports — President Trump signed Executive Order 14257 on April 2, 2025, declaring a national emergency based on persistent U.S. goods trade deficits and imposing reciprocal tariffs. The order establishes a 10 percent baseline ad valorem duty on all imports effective April 5, 2025, with country-specific higher rates for designated trading partners effective April 9, 2025, as detailed in Annex I. The order exempts certain goods including steel, aluminum, automobiles, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and energy products, and includes carve-outs for USMCA-qualifying goods from Canada and Mexico. The order invokes the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and National Emergencies Act, citing trade deficits as a threat to national security and manufacturing capacity.
• Trump announces reciprocal tariff plan using simplified trade-deficit formula — President Trump announced a sweeping tariff plan calculated by dividing each country's 2024 goods trade deficit by total imports, then halving the result, with a 10% baseline for countries without large deficits. The White House confirmed the approach was simplistic, based solely on bilateral trade imbalances rather than the promised multi-factor analysis of tariff and non-tariff barriers. Economists criticized the methodology as economically flawed and strategically incoherent, with rates reaching 50% for Lesotho and 49% for Cambodia—countries with low purchasing power, not discriminatory trade practices.
• Trump administration implemented tariffs using an undocumented formula without standard economic methodology. — Trump's tariff policy applied tariffs to entire nations rather than specific products, using a formula that economists identified as nonsensical and potentially AI-generated. Economist Paul Krugman identified the formula as likely AI-derived. CNBC's Steve Liesman stated that "nobody ever heard of this formula" and concluded "the president kind of made this up as he went along." Former Treasury Secretary Lawrence Summers characterized the approach as "to economics what creationism is to biology, astrology is to astronomy, or RFK thought is to vaccine science." The administration provided no coherent policy rationale or analysis supporting the tariff structure.
• Trump declares national tariff emergency and claims foreign trade practices constitute national emergency — In April 2025, Trump declared a national emergency, asserting that "foreign trade and economic practices have created a national emergency" to justify sweeping tariffs. Two courts rejected this claim, though an appeals court temporarily halted the more expansive ruling. The administration bypassed Congress and normal legislative procedures to impose tariffs unilaterally under emergency authority.
• Trump announced universal tariffs on all countries — Trump stated that tariffs he will announce on Wednesday will apply to all countries, not just 10-15 specific nations previously mentioned. When asked whether tariff rates would be universal or differentiated by country, Trump declined to specify, saying "you're gonna see in two days."

Supporting reports

• Trump designated Mexican drug cartels as terrorist organizations — President Donald Trump designated Mexican drug cartels as terrorist organizations, allowing them to be targeted directly by the military. This move has sparked a strong response from Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who emphasized that such actions should not infringe on Mexico's sovereignty. The designation is part of Trump's broader confrontational stance towards Mexico and Canada during his second presidency, which has included threats of trade tariffs and other unilateral actions.

Supporting reports

• Executive Order Imposing Duties on Chinese Opioid Supply Chain — On February 1, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order imposing a 10% ad valorem tariff on products from the People's Republic of China. This action aims to address the synthetic opioid crisis by targeting the supply chain of fentanyl and related chemicals. The order expands the national emergency declared in Proclamation 10886, citing China's failure to curb the flow of precursor chemicals and money laundering activities linked to opioid production. The tariffs apply to goods entered for consumption after February 4, 2025, with specific exemptions outlined for goods in transit before this date.
• Trump issues executive order imposing duties on Canadian imports — On February 1, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order imposing additional tariffs on Canadian imports to address the flow of illicit drugs across the northern border. The order cites the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and the National Emergencies Act as the basis for imposing a 25% ad valorem tariff on most Canadian goods and a 10% tariff on energy products. The order aims to pressure Canada into taking more action against drug trafficking organizations and the production of fentanyl, which is seen as a public health crisis in the United States.
• Trump issues executive order imposing duties on Mexican imports — On February 1, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order imposing a 25% ad valorem tariff on all products imported from Mexico. This action was taken under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and the National Emergencies Act, citing the influx of illegal aliens and illicit drugs as a national emergency. The tariffs are intended to pressure Mexico to take more significant action against drug trafficking organizations and illegal migration. The order specifies that the tariffs will apply to goods entered for consumption after February 4, 2025, with certain exceptions.
• Imposing Duties on Chinese Products to Combat Opioid Crisis — President Donald J. Trump issued Executive Order 14195, imposing a 10% ad valorem tariff on products from the People's Republic of China. This action aims to address the national emergency caused by the influx of synthetic opioids, primarily fentanyl, from China. The order expands the scope of a previously declared national emergency and seeks to pressure China into taking decisive action against the production and export of synthetic opioids and related precursor chemicals. The tariffs apply to goods entered for consumption after February 4, 2025, with specific exemptions.
• Imposing Duties on Mexican Imports — President Donald J. Trump issued Executive Order 14194, imposing a 25% ad valorem tariff on Mexican imports to address illegal immigration and drug trafficking. The order expands a national emergency declared on January 20, 2025, citing Mexico's failure to curb drug trafficking and illegal migration. The tariffs apply to goods entered for consumption after February 4, 2025, unless exempted by specific conditions. The order allows for further action if Mexico retaliates or fails to cooperate.
• Trump signed executive order imposing 10% tariffs on all Chinese goods to address synthetic opioid supply chain — President Trump signed an executive order on February 1, 2025, declaring a national emergency under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and the National Emergencies Act (NEA) to impose a 10 percent ad valorem tariff on all articles that are products of the People's Republic of China, effective February 4, 2025. The order cites the opioid crisis, claiming approximately 200 American deaths per day from synthetic opioids, and asserts that the Chinese government subsidizes chemical companies exporting fentanyl and precursor chemicals. The tariffs are stated to remain in effect until the President determines the PRC has taken adequate steps to address the crisis.
• Trump signed executive order imposing 25 percent tariffs on all Mexican imports effective February 4, 2025, citing national emergency over border migration and drug trafficking. — President Trump signed an executive order on February 1, 2025, declaring a national emergency under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and National Emergencies Act, and imposing a 25 percent ad valorem tariff on all articles that are products of Mexico, effective February 4, 2025 at 12:01 a.m. eastern time. The order states the tariffs are conditioned on Mexico's cooperation in arresting drug trafficking organizations, intercepting illicit drugs, and stemming illegal migration. The order authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security to modify the Harmonized Tariff Schedule and directs consultation among cabinet officials on whether Mexico has taken adequate steps to warrant tariff removal.
• Trump signed executive order imposing 25% tariffs on Canadian goods and 10% on Canadian energy to address illicit drug flow across northern border — President Trump signed an executive order on February 1, 2025, declaring a national emergency under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and National Emergencies Act, citing the flow of illicit drugs (particularly fentanyl) across the northern border and Canada's alleged failure to cooperate. The order imposes a 25% ad valorem tariff on all Canadian products (except energy) and 10% on Canadian energy resources, effective February 4, 2025. The order authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security to implement the tariffs and permits the President to increase duties if Canada retaliates.
• White House issues fact sheet announcing tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China — The White House issued a fact sheet on February 1, 2025, announcing that President Trump has imposed a 25% additional tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, and a 10% additional tariff on imports from China, with energy resources from Canada subject to a lower 10% rate. The administration frames these tariffs as a response to what it characterizes as a national emergency under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, citing illegal immigration and fentanyl trafficking. The fact sheet states the tariffs will remain in effect until the administration determines the crisis is alleviated.
• Imposing Duties To Address the Flow of Illicit Drugs Across Our Northern Border — President Donald J. Trump issued Executive Order 14193, imposing additional tariffs on Canadian products to address the flow of illicit drugs across the northern border. The order expands a national emergency declaration and imposes a 25% ad valorem tariff on most Canadian goods, with a 10% tariff on energy products. The tariffs aim to pressure Canada into taking stronger action against drug trafficking organizations. The order allows for further tariff increases if Canada retaliates and mandates regular consultations with U.S. officials to assess Canada's compliance.
• Trump imposes tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China — Former President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China. The tariffs include a 25% tax on most products from Canada and Mexico, with Canadian energy facing a 10% tariff. China will also face a 10% tariff. The tariffs are set to take effect on Tuesday. This move has sparked criticism from Democratic leaders and concerns about potential retaliatory measures from the affected countries, as well as potential negative impacts on American consumers and global trade.
• Trump signs executive orders imposing tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China — President Donald Trump signed three executive orders imposing tariffs of 25% on all goods from Mexico and Canada, and a 10% tariff on Canadian oil exports and imports from China. The tariffs are set to take effect on Tuesday, with a clause to increase them if the targeted countries retaliate. Trump cited the US opioid crisis and illegal immigration as reasons for the tariffs, which are imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The move has sparked backlash from Canada, Mexico, and China, with potential for a trade war.
• Trump announces tariffs causing market disruption — President Trump announced new tariffs, causing market instability and prompting Republican Senators to seek exemptions. Trump later lifted the tariffs for 30 days after reaching agreements with Mexico and Canada. The tariffs were criticized for potentially harming U.S. consumers and trade relations.
• Trump announces tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China — President Donald Trump announced the imposition of 25% tariffs on all products from Canada and Mexico, with a 10% tariff on Canadian energy imports, and a 10% tariff on products from China. This marks a significant escalation from his first-term tariffs, which were narrower in scope. The tariffs are part of Trump's strategy to address illegal immigration and drug trafficking, particularly fentanyl, from these countries. The announcement has raised concerns about potential economic disruptions and strained relations with U.S. allies.
• Establishment of a United States Sovereign Wealth Fund — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14196, directing the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of Commerce to develop a plan for a United States sovereign wealth fund. The plan aims to promote fiscal sustainability, reduce tax burdens, and enhance economic security and international leadership. The plan must be submitted to the President within 90 days and include recommendations on funding, investment strategies, and governance.
• Executive Order pausing tariffs on Mexican goods — President Donald J. Trump issued Executive Order 14198, pausing the implementation of a 25% tariff on Mexican goods until March 4, 2025. This decision follows Mexico's steps to address illegal migration and drug trafficking. The pause allows further assessment of Mexico's actions to alleviate the crisis at the southern border. The order outlines continued evaluation by U.S. officials and potential tariff implementation if conditions worsen.
• Trump issues executive order on southern border — On February 3, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order titled "Progress on the Situation At Our Southern Border." The order pauses the implementation of a 25% ad valorem tariff on Mexican goods until March 4, 2025, to assess Mexico's efforts in addressing illegal migration and drug trafficking. The order amends a previous executive order from February 1, 2025, which imposed these tariffs. The Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with other officials, will continue to evaluate the situation at the border during this pause.
• Trump issues executive order to establish U.S. Sovereign Wealth Fund — President Donald Trump issued an executive order on February 3, 2025, directing the establishment of a United States Sovereign Wealth Fund. The order mandates the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of Commerce, in coordination with the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, to develop a plan for the fund. This plan is to be submitted within 90 days and should include recommendations on funding mechanisms, investment strategies, and governance models. The initiative aims to promote fiscal sustainability, reduce tax burdens, and enhance U.S. economic leadership internationally.
• Trump pauses tariffs on Canadian goods — President Donald Trump issued an executive order on February 3, 2025, pausing the implementation of additional tariffs on Canadian goods. This decision follows Canada's steps to address illegal migration and drug trafficking issues at the northern border. The tariffs, initially set to take effect on February 4, 2025, are now delayed until March 4, 2025, to allow further assessment of Canada's actions. The order mandates continued evaluation by the Secretary of Homeland Security and other officials to determine if the situation improves or if tariffs should be enforced.
• Trump ordered creation of sovereign wealth fund — On February 3, 2025, Trump ordered the US Treasury and Commerce Department to create a sovereign wealth fund operating outside the Federal Reserve and Treasury Department. The fund would require congressional approval and act as an investment vehicle for the country. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the government would "stand this thing up within the next 12 months." Trump suggested the fund could facilitate TikTok purchase but offered few details on funding sources.
• White House issued executive order pausing tariffs on Canada pending border security assessment — The White House issued an executive order on February 3, 2025, pausing 25 percent ad valorem tariffs on Canadian goods and 10 percent tariffs on energy products, originally scheduled to take effect February 4. The order acknowledges steps taken by Canada to address illegal migration and drug trafficking, and extends the pause until March 4, 2025, pending assessment by the Secretary of Homeland Security in consultation with State, Justice, and National Security officials. The order reserves the right to implement tariffs immediately if conditions worsen.
• White House issued presidential action pausing Mexico tariffs pending assessment of border cooperation — The White House issued a presidential action on February 3, 2025, pausing the implementation of a 25 percent ad valorem tariff on Mexican goods scheduled for February 4, 2025, and extending the deadline to March 4, 2025. The order states that Mexico has taken "immediate steps" to address illegal migration and drug trafficking, and directs the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with other officials, to assess whether these steps sufficiently alleviate the crisis. The order reserves the right to implement tariffs immediately if conditions worsen or Mexico fails to take sufficient action.
• Executive Order pausing tariffs on Canadian goods — President Donald J. Trump issued Executive Order 14197, pausing additional tariffs on Canadian goods until March 4, 2025. This decision follows Canada's steps to address illegal migration and drug trafficking at the northern border. The order amends a previous executive order, delaying the implementation of tariffs to assess Canada's actions further. The Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with other officials, will continue to monitor the situation.
• Canada and Mexico respond to U.S. tariffs — In response to Trump's tariffs, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced retaliatory tariffs of 25% on various American goods, emphasizing the historical partnership between the U.S. and Canada. Mexico's president also rejected U.S. claims of government alliances with criminal organizations and promised retaliatory measures.
• Canada announces retaliatory tariffs against U.S. — In response to Trump's newly imposed tariffs, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced over $100 billion in retaliatory tariffs, including a 25% tariff on various American goods. Trudeau emphasized the historical partnership between the U.S. and Canada and warned that these tariffs would harm jobs and economic stability.
• Trump imposes tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China — Former President Donald Trump announced the imposition of tariffs of 25% on goods from Mexico and Canada, and 10% on goods from China, breaking existing trade agreements. He justified these tariffs as a means to address undocumented migration and drug trafficking, despite evidence suggesting limited impact on these issues.
• China announced retaliatory tariffs against the U.S. — Former President Donald Trump announced new tariffs of 25% on goods from Mexico and Canada, and 10% on goods from China, breaking existing trade agreements. This action is framed as a response to undocumented migration and drug trafficking, despite evidence suggesting limited impact from Canada.
• US Postal Service halts packages from China and Hong Kong — In response to President Trump's additional 10% tariff on Chinese goods, China has announced retaliatory measures, including a 15% tax on coal and liquefied natural gas, and a 10% tariff on crude oil, agricultural machinery, and large vehicles exported by the U.S. China also initiated an investigation into monopolistic practices by U.S. companies.
• Trump announces tariffs on Canada and Mexico — The US Postal Service temporarily suspended incoming parcels from China and Hong Kong, resuming normal service the following day. This action occurred amid escalating trade tensions between the US and China, with accusations from Beijing of "unreasonable suppression." The suspension was likely related to the elimination of the de minimis duty-free exemption for low-value packages, impacting US consumer orders. The USPS did not provide specific reasons for the suspension. The incident is part of a broader trade conflict involving tariffs and countermeasures between the two nations.
• Trump announces tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada, and China — President Trump announced tariffs on Canada and Mexico, which were temporarily delayed after those countries increased border security. The threat of tariffs creates uncertainty in trade relations with America's key regional allies. This move is part of Trump's broader strategy to leverage economic pressure in international relations.
• Amendment to Duties Addressing the Synthetic Opioid Supply Chain in China — President Trump announced a new round of tariffs, including 25% on most products from Mexico and Canada and 10% on products from China, set to begin at 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday. This announcement caused immediate declines in the stock market.
• Amendment to Duties on Synthetic Opioid Supply Chain — President Donald Trump issued an executive order amending duties related to the synthetic opioid supply chain in the People's Republic of China. The order modifies the availability of duty-free de minimis treatment for certain articles, contingent upon the Secretary of Commerce's notification to the President about the adequacy of systems for processing and collecting applicable tariff revenue. This amendment aims to address the flow of synthetic opioids by adjusting trade measures with China.
• White House issued amendment to tariff order on synthetic opioids from China — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14200, amending duties related to the synthetic opioid supply chain in China. The order modifies duty-free treatment for certain articles, contingent on the Secretary of Commerce's notification regarding tariff revenue systems.
• — The White House issued a presidential amendment on February 5, 2025, modifying an executive order from February 1, 2025 that imposed duties on synthetic opioid precursors from China. The amendment replaced subsection (g) of section 2, clarifying that duty-free de minimis treatment remains available for eligible covered articles until the Secretary of Commerce notifies the President that adequate systems are in place to process and collect tariff revenue. The order invokes the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, the National Emergencies Act, and section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration issues executive order imposing sanctions on ICC officials and affiliates — The Trump administration issued an executive order in February 2025 authorizing comprehensive sanctions against International Criminal Court officials, judges, and individuals and organizations assisting the ICC's investigation into Israeli crimes in Palestine. The order targeted ICC prosecutors, judges, three Palestinian human rights groups, and UN special rapporteur Francesca Albanese, effectively criminalizing collaboration with the court and restricting access to US financial and technology services.
• Executive Order to Eradicate Anti-Christian Bias — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14202, establishing a Task Force within the Department of Justice to eradicate anti-Christian bias. The Task Force, chaired by the Attorney General, includes members from various federal departments and agencies. Its functions include reviewing past anti-Christian policies, recommending remedial actions, and protecting religious liberties. The Task Force will submit reports to the President and is set to terminate in two years unless extended.
• Imposing Sanctions on the International Criminal Court — President Donald J. Trump issued Executive Order 14203, imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC). The order blocks property and suspends entry into the U.S. for ICC officials and their families, citing the ICC's investigations into U.S. and Israeli personnel as illegitimate. The order declares a national emergency to address the threat posed by the ICC's actions, which are seen as undermining U.S. sovereignty and national security.
• Trump Imposes Sanctions on International Criminal Court — On February 6, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC). The order blocks property and assets of ICC officials and restricts their entry into the United States. This action is in response to the ICC's investigations and arrest warrants against U.S. and Israeli personnel, which the U.S. government deems illegitimate. The order declares a national emergency to address these actions, citing threats to U.S. national security and foreign policy.
• Trump signed executive order on ICC sanctions — On February 6, 2025, Trump signed an executive order authorizing economic sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC), accusing the body of "improperly targeting" the United States and its allies, including Israel. Trump criticized the ICC for issuing warrants for Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes. The order grants Trump broad powers to impose asset freezes and travel bans against ICC staff and family members if the US determines they are involved in investigating or prosecuting US citizens and certain allies.
• Trump signed executive order imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court — President Trump signed an executive order declaring a national emergency and imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court, blocking property and assets of ICC officials and suspending their entry into the United States. The order names ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan in an annex and authorizes the Secretary of State and Treasury to identify additional ICC personnel for sanctions. The order asserts that the ICC has engaged in "illegitimate and baseless actions" by investigating U.S. and Israeli personnel and issuing arrest warrants for Israeli officials, and claims this threatens U.S. national security and sovereignty.

Supporting reports

• Trump relaunch of maximum pressure campaign against Iran — In February 2025, the Trump administration relaunched a "maximum pressure campaign" of stronger sanctions against Iran, following Trump's 2018 withdrawal from the JCPOA. This campaign aimed to pressure Iran to renegotiate nuclear limits. The campaign continued through June 2025 as negotiations proceeded in Oman, though Iran's foreign minister stated Iran would not negotiate while the U.S. maintained maximum pressure and military threats.
• White House issued National Security Presidential Memorandum directing maximum pressure campaign against Iran — The White House issued NSPM-2 on February 4, 2025, directing the Secretaries of State, Treasury, Defense, and other senior officials to impose maximum pressure on Iran through sanctions enforcement, oil export restrictions, diplomatic isolation, export controls, and criminal prosecution of Iranian operatives and financial networks. The memorandum states Iran is the world's leading state sponsor of terror, poses an existential nuclear threat, and directs proxy groups to embed sleeper cells in the United States. It orders Treasury to immediately impose sanctions on all persons with evidence of Iran sanctions violations and to review and rescind sanctions waivers; State to drive Iranian oil exports to zero and lead diplomatic isolation; and the Attorney General to prosecute Iranian-funded terrorist groups and disrupt espionage efforts.
• White House issues fact sheet on National Security Presidential Memorandum restoring maximum pressure on Iran — The White House issued a fact sheet on February 4, 2025, announcing that President Trump signed a National Security Presidential Memorandum (NSPM) directing maximum economic pressure on Iran. The memorandum directs the Treasury Secretary to impose sanctions, the State Department to rescind sanctions waivers and drive Iran's oil exports to zero, and the Attorney General to prosecute Iranian-sponsored financial networks and terrorist operatives inside the United States. The U.S. Permanent Representative to the UN is directed to work with allies on snapback of international sanctions.

Supporting reports

• Trump orders opening of migrant detention center at Guantánamo Bay — President Donald Trump signed an executive order to prepare a detention facility at Guantánamo Bay, Cuba, to house up to 30,000 immigrants deported from the United States. The order directs the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Homeland Security to expand the Migrant Operations Center at the naval base to full capacity. This move is part of Trump's broader immigration crackdown, which includes other executive orders aimed at reducing immigration and enhancing border security.
• White House issues memorandum directing expansion of migrant detention at Guantanamo Bay — The White House issued a presidential memorandum on January 29, 2025, directing the Secretary of Defense and Secretary of Homeland Security to expand the Migrant Operations Center at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay to full capacity. The memorandum states the expansion is to provide detention space for "high-priority criminal aliens unlawfully present in the United States" and to address immigration enforcement needs. The stated purpose is to "halt the border invasion, dismantle criminal cartels, and restore national sovereignty."
• Trump signs executive order on Guantanamo Bay migrant facility — President Trump signed an executive order directing the Pentagon and DHS to prepare a migrant detention facility at Guantanamo Bay for up to 30,000 people. This order raises concerns about the treatment and rights of migrants detained in such facilities.
• Trump signed executive order preparing Guantánamo Bay detention facility for migrants — On January 29, 2025, Trump signed an executive order to prepare a massive detention facility at Guantánamo Bay to hold up to 30,000 deported immigrants. Trump stated Guantánamo could "detain the worst criminal illegal aliens threatening the American people" during the signing of the Laken Riley Act. The order is part of broader efforts to fulfill Trump's promise to remove millions of people from the country.
• Trump announces migrant facility at Gitmo — President Trump announced an executive order to prepare a 30,000-person migrant facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. This move aims to double the capacity for detaining migrants and is unprecedented in U.S. history. The decision has raised significant legal and ethical questions about the treatment of migrants and the use of military facilities for immigration enforcement.
• Trump announces plan to detain migrants at Guantánamo Bay — President Donald Trump announced plans to send tens of thousands of undocumented migrants to a new facility at the Guantánamo Bay naval base. This move is part of his "mass deportation" campaign, aiming to house "criminal illegal aliens" in a 30,000-person facility. The announcement has sparked significant controversy, with critics arguing it demonizes migrants by associating them with terrorism. The plan involves expanding the existing detention center, notorious for its history of human rights abuses, to accommodate the migrants.
• Trump administration announces executive order for migrant detention center — President Trump announced an executive order to open a 30,000-person-capacity migrant detention center at Guantanamo Bay, aimed at detaining what he described as the "worst criminal illegal aliens threatening the American people." This move is part of his broader immigration policy strategy.
• Trump announces executive order for migrant detention center — President Trump announced plans to sign an executive order to establish a 30,000-person-capacity migrant detention center at Guantanamo Bay, aimed at detaining what he described as "the worst criminal illegal aliens threatening the American people." This move is part of his administration's ongoing focus on immigration enforcement.
• Trump orders migrant detention center at Guantánamo Bay — Trump signed an executive order to prepare a huge detention facility at Guantánamo Bay that he said could be used to hold up to 30,000 immigrants deported from the US. Trump stated Guantánamo could "detain the worst criminal illegal aliens threatening the American people" during the signing of the Laken Riley Act. The order is part of a broader effort to fulfill Trump's promise to remove millions of people from the country.
• Plan to deport undocumented people to Guantanamo announced — A plan was announced to deport undocumented individuals to Guantanamo Bay, a location known for its lack of legal oversight and history of inhumane conditions. This proposal has been criticized as an attempt to avoid legal scrutiny and has raised significant human rights concerns. Legal challenges are expected as the plan is seen as a violation of constitutional and international human rights standards.