In a significant development just five days after a heated encounter in the Oval Office, former President Donald Trump announced that he has received a letter from Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky. In this letter, Zelensky expressed his readiness to engage in negotiations “as soon as possible.” Trump commented on the communication, stating, “I appreciate that he has sent this letter,” while also mentioning that he has received “strong signals from Russia that it is ready for peace.” Additionally, Trump indicated that Zelensky was prepared to finalize a minerals deal that had been delayed following their confrontation.
It's important to note that the timing of when Trump received Zelensky's letter remains unclear. However, the sentiment expressed by Trump closely mirrors a post made by the Ukrainian leader on social media earlier that same day.
In previous statements, Donald Trump made bold claims regarding the Panama Canal, asserting that a 1970s agreement to transfer control to Panama had been violated. “The Panama Canal was built by Americans for Americans,” he stated, positioning himself as a defender of American interests. Furthermore, he expressed interest in Greenland, acknowledging that the decision ultimately rests with the residents. He emphasized, “One way or the other, we are going to get it.” As Trump continued his speech, many Democrats began to exit the chamber, leaving several rows noticeably empty.
During his address, Trump had a touching moment when he recognized DJ Daniel, a 13-year-old boy battling brain cancer who dreams of becoming a police officer. He directed Secret Service director Sean Curran to name Daniel an honorary agent, which prompted applause from the audience. However, the atmosphere shifted when Trump called for the mandatory death penalty for anyone who murders a police officer, leading some Democrats to shout, “January 6th,” referencing his pardons of rioters involved in the Capitol siege.
In his speech to Congress, Trump touted his administration's border policies, declaring, “We are achieving the great liberation of America.” He claimed that his administration has implemented the most extensive border and immigration crackdown in U.S. history, leading to the lowest recorded illegal border crossings. Trump criticized the media and Democrats, asserting that all that was needed for border security was a new president. While some Democrats applauded during sections of his immigration discussion, others expressed their discontent by booing remarks about “migrant occupation and corruption.”
Trump also reiterated his support for tariffs, despite the volatility they have caused in the markets. He stated, “Whatever they tariff us, we tariff them,” suggesting a reciprocal approach to trade. He emphasized that such policies would lead to significant job creation and revenue generation. Earlier discussions by Trump's commerce secretary, Howard Lutnick, hinted at a potential deal to alleviate tariffs with Canada and Mexico, although no formal agreement was announced.
As he highlighted his administration’s efforts to reduce the federal workforce, Trump claimed, “The days of unelected bureaucrats are over.” This remark drew attention from Democratic lawmakers who pointed at Elon Musk, present in the chamber as an unelected special advisor to Trump. Musk has reportedly invested heavily in Trump’s presidential campaign and has been influential in government decisions, raising questions about the implications of such influence.
Opening his address, Trump predicted that his presidency would usher in “the greatest and most successful era in the history of our country.” He proclaimed that the American Dream is thriving, asserting that his administration has achieved more in a short time than many others accomplish in years. While he touted his electoral mandate, Democratic representatives staged protests, displaying signs that read “Musk steals” and “Protect veterans.” Notably, Rep. Al Green (D-TX) interrupted Trump, declaring, “You have no mandate,” leading to his removal from the chamber.
Trump also insisted that he has restored free speech, a claim that elicited further protests from Democrats, who held signs proclaiming “False.” His administration's tensions with the media were highlighted by his decision to ban the Associated Press from White House events for failing to acknowledge his controversial renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, an action that has yet to receive international recognition.
