Trump Action Archive

Supporting reports

• Department of Defense requests additional $200 billion for Iran war — The Department of Defense has requested an additional $200 billion to fund the ongoing war with Iran. The administration acknowledges that fuel and munitions costs alone have reached approximately $45 billion, with actual costs running far higher when accounting for destruction of U.S. bases in the Middle East. The president has requested $1.5 trillion for military funding in 2027, a 44% increase from pre-war levels.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration suspended Russia sanctions — The Trump administration suspended Russia sanctions that Trump had recently signed into law, representing a reversal of its own policy and a unilateral easing of economic pressure on Russia.

Supporting reports

• Trump arranged U.S. purchase of Russian diesel — Trump made a deal for the United States to purchase Russian diesel fuel, providing an economic lifeline to Russia during its ongoing military conflict with Ukraine. The transaction occurred as part of Trump's broader policy alignment with Russian President Vladimir Putin and was cited alongside other actions demonstrating Trump's support for Russia.
• Ukraine's Sanctions Commissioner analyzed economic impact of Russian diesel purchase — Vladyslav Vlasiuk, Ukraine's Presidential Commissioner for Sanctions Policy, published a mathematical analysis of the Trump administration's announced purchase of Russian diesel. Vlasiuk calculated that a single 40,000-ton tanker covers less than two hours of U.S. diesel consumption, while the U.S. exports 1.5 million barrels of diesel daily—meaning the Russian shipment is equivalent to just 4.5 hours of U.S. exports. Vlasiuk questioned why "one of the world's largest diesel exporters is buying diesel from an aggressor state just to cover two hours of domestic consumption," characterizing the purchase as economically irrational and politically motivated.

Supporting reports

• Oil shipments from Persian Gulf surge despite Iran war attacks; shipping costs reach $40 million per trip — Oil is pouring out of the Persian Gulf at the fastest rate since the start of the Iran war, even as recent attacks threaten the flow. The cost of getting oil out is eye-watering: up to $40 million for a multiday trip. Gulf oil producers are hiring very large crude carriers (VLCCs) to complete perilous "shuttle runs" through the Strait of Hormuz. These new economics represent a wartime gold rush: producers swallow record freight costs to keep crude moving, shipowners reap some of the best returns the industry has seen in decades, and sailors are paid like never before. However, those financial rewards come with substantial risks. Since September 28, seven ships have been hit.

Supporting reports

• U.S. consumers spent over $100 billion extra on fuel due to Iran War — According to the Iran War Energy Cost Tracker by Brown University, U.S. consumers have spent over $100 billion in extra money on gasoline and diesel since the start of the Iran War. The figure represents the additional cost burden imposed on American households due to the conflict's impact on global energy markets.

Supporting reports

• Oil prices spiked amid regional conflict — Oil prices increased significantly during the period of escalating military conflict in the Middle East, with Brent crude reaching $94.50 per barrel. The price increase reflects market concerns about the impact of the conflict on global energy supplies.
• Oil prices surge past $100/barrel amid escalating Iran-U.S. tensions — Brent crude oil surged past $100 per barrel, up 42% in twenty days, as regional military tensions between the U.S. and Iran intensified. The 10-Year Treasury yield spiked above 4.70%, and the 30-year climbed past 5%. Major stock indices sold off sharply at market open, with the Nasdaq down nearly 2.7%. The escalation followed overnight Houthi attacks on Saudi oil tankers and Iranian strikes near Iraq-Kuwait border positions.
• Oil prices surge 7 percent following Houthi attacks on Saudi tankers — Following claims by Iran-backed Houthi rebels that they attacked two Saudi Arabian oil tankers in the Red Sea, the price of Brent crude oil surged 7 percent to more than $100 per barrel. The attacks raise concerns about potential closure of the Bab el-Mandeb strait, through which 12 to 15 percent of the world's maritime trade passes annually. The average price of gasoline in the United States rose to $4.09 per gallon.
• Brent crude surges past $91 per barrel and national gas prices hit $4 per gallon — Brent crude oil surged past $91 per barrel, and national gasoline prices reached $4 per gallon for the second time in 2026. The price increases reflect market response to regional conflict and supply disruptions, affecting consumers and the broader economy.
• Iran conflict escalation drove oil prices to $100 per barrel and gas prices above $4 per gallon — A widening military conflict with Iran entered a dangerous new phase, spooking energy markets and sending global oil prices to $100 per barrel. Gas prices topped $4 per gallon in much of the country. The economic turmoil coincided with the Trump administration's formalization of new tariffs on dozens of countries, creating compounded economic pressure on American families and businesses already weathered by over a year of trade war shocks.

Supporting reports

• Pentagon requested $80 billion supplemental funding for Iran War costs — Pentagon Deputy Secretary Steve Feinberg called Congressional appropriators requesting approximately $80 billion in supplemental funds to cover Iran War costs. Pentagon officials including Secretary Hegseth and the Pentagon Comptroller had previously testified that the war cost $29 billion, which most believed was a vast underestimate given the stockpiles of SM3, Patriot, THAAD, and Tomahawk missiles used. The President planned to meet with defense contractors Wednesday to urge faster production of depleted missile stockpiles, but contractors indicated they cannot proceed without Congressional appropriations and signed contracts.
• Journalist documented total Iran War costs at $109 billion in less than four months — Journalist Paul Farhi reported that the Iran War has cost at least $109 billion so far, not including tens of billions in indirect costs such as higher gas, fertilizer, and commodities prices and stock-market losses. The war has also resulted in 13 American lives lost and countless Iranian casualties in less than four months.
• White House requests $87.6bn supplemental funding including $67.1bn for Iran war costs — The Trump administration submitted a supplemental funding request to Congress on Wednesday requesting $87.6bn, with $67.1bn designated for Iran war expenses including $21bn for munitions and defense industrial base. The request also includes $1.4bn for Ebola response in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and $11.1bn for farmers affected by tariff-related economic shocks. Democratic lawmakers, including Senate Appropriations Committee ranking member Patty Murray, have signaled opposition to funding the unpopular conflict, which Trump initiated in February without prior Congressional authorization.
• Trump submitted $67.1 billion supplemental budget request for Iran War costs — Trump submitted a supplemental budget request of $67.1 billion to cover costs of the Iran War, in addition to a $1.5 trillion military budget request. This request was submitted while the nation carries a $39 trillion national debt.

Supporting reports

• Treasury issued 60-day general license waiving Iranian oil sanctions — Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent issued a temporary 60-day general license authorizing the production, delivery, and sale of Iranian oil, as well as refined products and petrochemicals. The license permits U.S. refiners to import Iranian oil and pay for it in U.S. dollars, effectively restoring Iran's access to dollar transactions and allowing the country to monetize an estimated $8–9 billion in oil already at sea, plus ongoing sales and release of frozen assets.
• Treasury issues Iran sanctions waiver allowing oil sales in U.S. dollars — The U.S. Treasury Department issued a 60-day general license and sanctions waiver permitting Iran to sell oil, petrochemicals, and natural resources globally, including to the United States, using U.S. dollars for transactions. The action followed the Lake Lucerne Summit in Switzerland, where Vice President JD Vance and Jared Kushner participated in quadrilateral negotiations involving the U.S., Iran, Pakistan, and Qatar aimed at advancing a Middle East conflict resolution deal. The waiver represents a significant reversal of Trump administration sanctions policy.
• Trump administration waived sanctions on Iranian oil — The Trump administration waived sanctions on Iranian oil for the period covered by the MOU, as specified in that agreement. The waiver increases the value of Iranian oil exports and represents a significant economic concession to Iran as part of the peace agreement framework.
• Iranian oil tankers move through Strait of Hormuz — Following the Treasury Department's sanctions waiver, Iranian oil tankers began moving through the Strait of Hormuz in massive volumes, indicating immediate implementation of the newly permitted oil sales. The movement of tankers represents the practical execution of the sanctions relief announced by the U.S. government.

Supporting reports

• NIH froze HIV research funding in South Africa — The National Institutes of Health froze HIV research funding in South Africa, home to the world's largest HIV and HIV-tuberculosis epidemic. The decision was attributed by researchers to racism within the administration and represents a targeted cut affecting research tied to racial disparities, transgender health, and immigrant health.
• Proposed 2027 budget eliminates CDC HIV-prevention funding and federal housing aid for people with AIDS — A proposed 2027 budget would eliminate the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's entire HIV-prevention budget, zero out federal housing aid for people with AIDS, and cut funding earmarked for Black, Latino, and Indigenous communities. The cuts compound other reductions to Medicaid and the Ryan White program.
• Trump administration issued stop-work order freezing nearly all US foreign assistance in January 2025 — In January 2025, the Trump administration issued a stop-work order that froze nearly all US foreign assistance overnight. The freeze dismantled international HIV/AIDS programs, particularly the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which had been credited with saving more than 25 million lives globally. The administration later dissolved USAID, laying off more than 12,000 workers and folding its functions into the State Department.

Supporting reports

• U.S. grants Iran immediate oil sanctions relief under MOU — The Wall Street Journal reported that the U.S. will allow Iran to immediately begin selling oil and fuel upon signing the MOU this week, providing Tehran with immediate financial incentive and economic windfall. Sanctions waivers on oil sales take effect immediately upon signing and cover banking, transportation, and insurance services. Iran receives upfront sanctions relief with additional relief tied to future performance.
• US to Lift Sanctions on Iran — As part of the draft deal framework, the United States will reportedly lift all sanctions on Iran. These sanctions had been in place since 2012 and had severely impacted Iran's economy. The lifting of sanctions is expected to allow Iran to sell oil freely and significantly boost its economic prospects. This development marks a major policy reversal and a concession by the US in the face of military and economic pressures.
• Iran to Charge Fees on Strait of Hormuz Transit — Iran will reportedly start charging fees on transit through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil shipments. This move is part of the concessions made by the US in the draft deal framework. Charging tolls on international shipping is a significant economic gain for Iran and represents a shift in control over a vital maritime route.
• US and Allies to Pay Iran Reconstruction Fund — The United States and/or its Middle Eastern allies will reportedly pay Iran a $300 billion reconstruction fund as part of the draft deal framework. This payment, equivalent to one year of Iran's GDP, would effectively serve as war reparations. The fund is intended to aid Iran's recovery and economic growth following the conflict.
• US-Iran Draft Deal Framework Revealed — A draft deal framework between the US and Iran has been revealed, indicating that Iran agrees not to develop or acquire nuclear weapons, and both nations agree to halt hostilities across the region, including in Lebanon. Iran will guarantee free and safe commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz for 60 days. This framework suggests significant concessions by the US, as it effectively marks a retreat from the conflict initiated by the Trump administration. The deal is seen as a capitulation, with Iran emerging in a stronger position both economically and militarily.

Supporting reports

• U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve falls to lowest level since early 2024 — The U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve fell to 357 million barrels, an 8 million barrel decline, reaching its lowest level since early 2024 and approaching levels not seen since 1983, per GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan.
• U.S. crude oil inventories fall to critical levels with industry warning of catastrophic price spikes — Politico reported that the oil industry is privately warning the Trump administration that U.S. crude stocks have fallen eight consecutive weeks and are now 3% below the five-year average. Gasoline stocks are 5% below average. Total U.S. commercial petroleum inventories are down 52 million barrels since the war began. The Strategic Petroleum Reserve was tapped for 8 million barrels last week, bringing it near its July 2023 low. Exxon's Senior VP warned Brent crude could hit $150–$160 per barrel. Gas is already at $4.26 nationally, $1.28 higher than before the war. Industry executives warned of "tank bottom" conditions and potential catastrophic price spikes by mid-to-late June. The White House denied receiving private industry warnings.
• U.S. crude oil stocks fell to lowest level in two decades — According to Financial Times reporting and U.S. government data, crude and petroleum product stocks fell by 10.6 million barrels in one week to 1.57 billion barrels—the lowest level since 2004. The Trump administration has been draining strategic petroleum reserves to contain surging prices caused by the Iran war. Industry analysts warned that oil prices are poised to rise sharply again within weeks. Bob McNally, president of Rapidan Energy Group, warned that prices could reach $200 per barrel this summer unless the Strait of Hormuz was reopened, and cautioned that such prices could trigger economic and financial system instability.
• U.S. oil reserves at lowest level in twenty-two years — According to reporting by Jamie Smyth of the Financial Times on June 4, 2026, U.S. oil reserves have fallen to their lowest level in twenty-two years. The administration released reserves to attempt to control oil prices that have skyrocketed following Trump's war on Iran, which prompted closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately 20% of the world's oil passed before the conflict. Oil industry analysts warned that prices will rise further if the crisis is not resolved.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration approves higher-ethanol fuel sales amid Iran war gas price crisis — Following sharp gas price increases triggered by U.S. military action against Iran and closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the Trump administration approved the sale of fuel with higher ethanol content as a cost-mitigation measure. The move aims to provide cheaper alternatives but risks increasing smog. Separately, the president floated suspending the federal gas tax. Truck drivers and other consumers report severe financial strain from fuel costs exceeding $5 per gallon for diesel.
• U.S. military action against Iran closes Strait of Hormuz, triggering global energy crisis — The United States, in coordination with Israel, launched military attacks on Iran, resulting in the closure of the Strait of Hormuz—a critical chokepoint through which approximately 20% of the world's oil supply travels. The action precipitated a global energy crisis, with gasoline prices rising to four-year highs and diesel reaching $5.72 per gallon at major truck stops. Analysts predict prices could reach record levels if the strait remains closed.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration considers financial bailout for UAE amid undisclosed Trump family business ties — President Trump stated on Tuesday that he is considering a financial bailout for the United Arab Emirates, a U.S. ally experiencing economic hardship from the Iran war. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent met with UAE Central Bank Governor Khaled Mohamed Balama, who proposed a currency-swap line to provide inexpensive dollar access. While such swaps are typically Federal Reserve decisions, the Trump administration has previously used Treasury funds for bailouts. The UAE is not a major U.S. trading partner (2024 trade totaled $47.9 billion, compared to $909 billion with Canada), yet administration officials including National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett signaled openness to assistance.
• Trump indicated openness to UAE financial bailout tied to Trump Organization business relationships — On April 22, 2026, Trump indicated he was open to offering the United Arab Emirates a taxpayer-funded financial bailout to offset economic losses from the Iran war. The UAE has extensive business partnerships with the Trump Organization and multiple financial ties to the Trump family. The proposed bailout would use federal funds to benefit a foreign government with direct financial interests in Trump family enterprises.
• UAE requests U.S. financial backstop for Iran war damage — Officials from the United Arab Emirates asked Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Treasury and Federal Reserve officials whether the U.S. will provide a financial backstop for the UAE if the Iran war continues to damage its economy.
• UAE warns Trump administration of dollar destabilization risk — The United Arab Emirates quietly warned the Trump administration that if the Iran conflict is not resolved, it will face dollar destabilization. The warning represents a private diplomatic signal from a key Gulf ally regarding economic consequences of prolonged conflict.

Supporting reports

• Treasury quietly extends Russian oil license — Treasury Secretary Bessent stated two days prior that the U.S. would not renew sanctions waivers on Russian or Iranian oil. Two days later, Treasury quietly extended a license allowing Russian oil transactions for another month via a late Friday night press release, with no announcement, press conference, or explanation.
• Treasury Secretary Bessent reversed decision on Russian oil sanctions waivers — On April 15, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the U.S. would not renew sanctions waivers permitting the sale of Russian oil. On April 18, the administration reversed that decision, renewing the waiver allowing countries to purchase Russian oil and petroleum products through May 16. The sale of oil provides financial support for Russia's war against Ukraine.
• U.S. Extends Waiver for Russian Oil Purchases — The U.S. administration renewed the waiver that allows countries to buy Russian oil and petroleum products, which had been set to expire. This decision comes despite previous statements indicating that the U.S. would not renew such waivers, providing a financial lifeline for Russia amid its ongoing war against Ukraine.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration's Iran war drives US gas prices to $4–5 per gallon, straining vulnerable populations — Following the US-Israel war on Iran (now in its seventh week with a ceasefire announced earlier in April), global fuel prices have risen sharply. American households report gas prices climbing from $2.70 to $4.19 per gallon or higher. Vulnerable populations—disabled individuals, rural residents, retirees on fixed incomes, food-bank operators, and working poor—report severe hardship: reduced access to medical care, inability to visit disabled family members, risk of homelessness, and in some cases, jobs becoming financially unfeasible due to commute costs. Food pantries report increased demand and operational strain.

Supporting reports

• International Energy Agency warned oil prices do not reflect Iran war threat — Fatih Birol, head of the International Energy Agency, stated that current high oil prices do not reflect the true gravity of the threat to global energy markets posed by the Iran war and could rise significantly higher if the Strait of Hormuz does not reopen. Energy Secretary Chris Wright confirmed on Fox that energy prices will remain high and potentially rise until meaningful ship traffic through the Strait resumes.

Supporting reports

• Trump threatened tariffs on China for alleged military aid to Iran — Trump stated on Fox News that if the U.S. caught China sending shoulder-fired missiles (MANPADS) to Iran, China would face a 50% tariff. Intelligence agencies had obtained information suggesting China may have recently sent a shipment of shoulder-fired missiles to Iran and was allowing companies to ship chemicals, fuel, and military components to Iran.

Supporting reports

• Iran tightens control of Strait of Hormuz; shipping effectively shut down — Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) took control of passage through the Strait of Hormuz, effectively shutting down shipping to non-Iranian vessels. Reports indicate Iran is charging fees—some suggesting $2 million per ship—for passage. Kevin Hassett, Trump's economic advisor, stated on CNBC that the strait could reopen in two months under best-case scenarios, contradicting Trump's earlier claim that the strait was fully open.

Supporting reports

• China deploys nearly 100 naval vessels in East and South China Seas — China deployed nearly 100 naval and coast guard vessels in the East and South China Seas during the week of April 10, approximately double the typical presence. Two separate security officials told Reuters this represents a new operational baseline rather than a temporary anomaly, signaling a sustained shift in Chinese military posture in contested waters.

Supporting reports

• Iran announced cryptocurrency toll system for Strait of Hormuz — Financial Times reported that Iran will demand shipping companies pay tolls in cryptocurrency for oil tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz. A spokesperson for Iran's Oil, Gas and Petrochemical Union stated Iran needs to monitor what passes through the strait to ensure the ceasefire is not used to transfer weapons, and that Iran will require tankers to use the northerly route close to its coastline, raising questions about whether Western or Gulf state vessels will risk transit.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration reduced oil sanctions on Iran amid Strait of Hormuz closure — The Trump administration reduced oil sanctions on Iran in an attempt to pressure Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran had closed in response to U.S. military operations. The move was described as a desperate effort to resolve an escalating conflict in which Iran had damaged U.S. military assets and closed a critical global shipping chokepoint, driving up energy prices worldwide and damaging Trump's domestic popularity.

Supporting reports

• Trump announced easing of sanctions on Belarus — Trump announced he would ease further sanctions on Belarus to facilitate fertilizer imports into the United States, following the U.S. easing of sanctions on Belarusian banks the previous week. The action aims to circumvent fertilizer supply disruptions caused by Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which has blocked approximately 20 percent of global fertilizer transportation.

Supporting reports

• OECD raised inflation forecasts due to Middle East conflict — The OECD sharply increased its inflation forecasts for major economies due to the Middle East conflict. The organization now predicts the average inflation rate for the Group of 20 will jump to 4% this year, rather than the 2.8% it predicted in December, with an even higher pace expected in the U.S.

Supporting reports

• U.S. Postal Service sought fuel surcharge due to Iran war — The U.S. Postal Service announced it is seeking to impose a temporary 8% fuel surcharge for package and express mail deliveries to address rising transportation costs resulting from higher oil prices caused by the Iran war. If approved by the Postal Regulatory Commission, the surcharge would take effect April 26 and remain in place until January 17, 2027. The surcharge would apply to Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, USPS Ground Advantage, and Parcel Select products. Oil prices have jumped more than 40% since February 28.
• U.S. Postal Service to Implement Fuel Surcharge — The U.S. Postal Service is preparing to introduce an 8 percent fuel surcharge on packages due to rising costs associated with the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. This surcharge will affect shipping costs for consumers and businesses, reflecting the broader economic impact of geopolitical tensions. The decision is part of a series of adjustments by major corporations and government entities in response to increased fuel prices and supply chain disruptions.

Supporting reports

• Stock market dropped sharply amid Iran war costs and oil price concerns — On March 26, the stock market experienced a sharp decline as traders recognized that oil prices would not decline in the near term due to the ongoing Iran conflict and resulting supply disruptions. The market decline reflected broader economic concerns about the war's impact on inflation and the cost of living.
• Stock market declined sharply amid Iran war and economic instability — The stock market experienced dramatic declines on March 27, 2026, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average down more than 10% since February and the Nasdaq 100 down more than 10%. The S&P 500 was shaping up to have its worst month since 2022. The decline was attributed to the strangling of the Strait of Hormuz due to the Iran war, which sent oil prices skyrocketing and destabilized the global economy.
• Consumer sentiment falls to 53.3, one of lowest readings ever recorded — Consumer sentiment fell in March to 53.3, one of the lowest readings ever recorded. The decline reflects public concern about economic conditions and the impact of the Iran conflict on the domestic economy.
• Mortgage rates near 6.5 percent, seven-month high — Mortgage interest rates have risen to near 6.5 percent, reaching a seven-month high. The elevated rates increase borrowing costs for homebuyers and refinancing homeowners, reducing housing affordability.
• Stock market indexes fall below lowest points of the year — All three major stock market indexes have fallen below their lowest points of the year. The S&P 500 is down 7 percent year-to-date, and the Nasdaq 100 is in correction territory, indicating significant losses in equity values and investor confidence.