January 21, 2025
Washington, D.C.—On January 20, 2025, Donald J. Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States, marking his return to the White House after defeating Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 election. The inauguration ceremony, originally planned for the Capitol’s exterior, was moved indoors to the Rotunda due to severe cold weather.
In his inaugural address, President Trump declared, “I was saved by God to make America great again,” emphasizing his commitment to restoring American prosperity and sovereignty. He vowed to prioritize American interests and end political correctness.
On his first full day in office, President Trump signed numerous executive orders, including the United States’ withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement and the World Health Organization. He also established the Department of Government Efficiency, appointing Elon Musk as its head, pending congressional approval. Additionally, Trump pardoned approximately 1,500 individuals connected to the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack, including high-profile figures such as Enrique Tarrio and Stewart Rhodes.
In a move to reshape his administration, President Trump initiated the termination of approximately 1,000 government officials who did not align with his “Make America Great Again” agenda. This effort included removing a celebrity chef from a government task force due to personal conflicts over migration policies.
International Reactions
Global leaders have responded to President Trump’s inauguration with a mix of congratulations and cautious optimism. King Charles III sent a personal, handwritten letter praising the enduring special relationship between the UK and the US. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also extended his congratulations, emphasizing the importance of deepening the transatlantic relationship.
In Europe, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz highlighted the significance of transatlantic relations and the strength of the European Union. French President Emmanuel Macron called for a stronger Europe in defense matters, reflecting a cautious approach to the new U.S. administration.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed willingness to collaborate with President Trump but voiced concerns over potential tariffs on Canadian goods. Similarly, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum indicated openness to dialogue while expressing reservations about certain U.S. policies, including the declared national emergency at the southern border.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas both signaled readiness to work with the new U.S. administration on sensitive issues such as the Gaza conflict and the pursuit of a two-state solution.
At the World Economic Forum in Davos, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reaffirmed Europe’s commitment to combating climate change, emphasizing the importance of the Paris Agreement, despite the U.S. withdrawal. Climate activists at the event urged for taxing the super-rich to fund green initiatives.
As the new administration begins, President Trump has outlined plans for significant policy changes, including a crackdown on illegal immigration and the implementation of tariffs on imported goods. These actions signal a bold and assertive approach to governance in his second term.
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