What Did Donald Trump Do Today?
January 26, 2025 Recap
President Trump announced a series of retaliatory measures against Colombia after its President, Gustavo Petro, denied entry to two US military planes carrying deported migrants. Trump immediately imposed a 25% tariff on all Colombian imports, with plans to increase it to 50% within a week. In addition to tariffs, Trump announced visa sanctions, travel bans, and increased inspections of Colombian nationals and cargo for national security reasons. Trump accused Colombia of failing to meet its legal obligations to accept deported nationals, warning that these measures were only the beginning of his administration's response.
President Petro defended his decision, asserting that deported Colombians should be treated with dignity and respect and received only on civilian flights, not military planes. He criticized the US approach, stating that deportees were being treated like criminals. Petro also highlighted that over 15,666 Americans are reportedly living in Colombia illegally, though this claim has not been independently verified. He vowed not to conduct raids or other aggressive measures to deport Americans, contrasting sharply with Trump’s immigration policies.
The tariffs are expected to have significant economic consequences, particularly for US consumers. Colombia is a major supplier of goods to the US, including coffee, bananas, crude oil, avocados, and flowers. The US imports about 20% of its coffee, valued at nearly $2 billion annually, from Colombia. The tariffs will likely increase the cost of these imports, potentially leading to higher prices for American consumers, especially coffee.
This conflict comes amid Trump’s broader immigration crackdown, which has included mass deportations, executive orders expanding the powers of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the re-implementation of restrictive policies like the "Remain in Mexico" program. ICE conducted 538 arrests in a single day, showcasing the administration’s aggressive approach. Trump also declared a national emergency at the US-Mexico border and issued policies denying citizenship rights to children of migrants in the country illegally or on temporary visas. Trump’s administration has framed these actions as necessary to secure the border and curb undocumented migration.
The diplomatic fallout between the US and Colombia is significant, as it undermines cooperation on migration management, a key challenge in the Americas. Tens of thousands of migrants travel through Colombia each year, often facilitated by criminal networks, on their way to the US. The strained relations could hinder efforts to address this issue. Christopher Landau, Trump’s deputy Secretary of State pick, had previously emphasized the importance of international collaboration to tackle migration, a priority now at risk due to this conflict.
Despite the tensions, Petro reaffirmed his commitment to handling migration with dignity and respect, rejecting the aggressive tactics of the Trump administration. Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance and Trump’s "border tsar" Tom Homan defended the administration’s hardline policies, emphasizing the need to send a strong message that the US border is closed. This escalating feud highlights the economic, diplomatic, and humanitarian complexities of the ongoing immigration debate.
President Trump addressed various topics during a press conference aboard Air Force One en route to Florida. Reflecting on the plane, he remarked that Air Force One has not changed much over the years but hinted at potential design changes to give it a more powerful appearance. Trump described his first week back in office as highly successful, attributing this to his prior presidential experience. He emphasized his administration's swift actions and strong start, highlighting a lift on military supply holds for Israel and staffing changes to increase accountability in federal roles. He noted his intention to ensure that inspectors general are competent and effective, mentioning that replacing such positions is a standard practice.
On foreign policy, Trump spoke about the Ukraine-Russia conflict, expressing a desire for peace and suggesting that both leaders also want to end the war. He linked rising oil prices to the continuation of the conflict and criticized the Biden administration for its handling of the issue. Addressing the Middle East, he emphasized the need for Arab nations like Jordan and Egypt to house displaced people from Gaza and praised Jordan’s efforts in supporting Palestinians. Trump also reiterated his interest in Greenland for its strategic value and criticized Canada’s trade practices, suggesting it could benefit from becoming a U.S. state, offering reduced taxes and increased security.
Domestically, Trump highlighted his administration’s focus on delivering results through efficiency and accountability. He expressed a warm sentiment toward TikTok, acknowledging its appeal to younger voters, and discussed ongoing negotiations regarding its ownership. He recognizes the transformative potential of artificial intelligence while stressing the importance of managing risks and ensuring sufficient energy resources to power advancements. Looking ahead, he hinted at possible international visits to the UK or Saudi Arabia, contingent on strategic agreements, and praised the First Lady’s growing public role, especially in response to disasters.
Trump also expressed confidence in the Senate's confirmation of his nominees and discussed future goals, including balancing foreign aid contributions and ensuring U.S. leadership in NATO and international trade. He expressed his administration’s readiness to tackle unresolved strategic issues, such as the Diego Garcia airbase, and reiterated his commitment to securing American interests on the global stage.
In an interview on CBS News' Face the Nation, Vice President JD Vance addressed various topics ranging from defense and economic policy to immigration and big tech reform. Defending Pete Hegseth's narrow confirmation as Secretary of Defense, Vance described him as a necessary disruptor to address systemic issues in the military, including failed wars, a recruitment crisis, and inefficiencies in the procurement process. He highlighted Hegseth’s focus on modernizing the Department of Defense to tackle emerging challenges like artificial intelligence and drone warfare.
When questioned about Tulsi Gabbard’s nomination to lead U.S. intelligence, Vance dismissed criticisms, emphasizing her military service, integrity, and commitment to reforming intelligence agencies. He argued that Gabbard’s leadership would restore trust in intelligence services, which he claimed have been weaponized and plagued by bureaucratic overreach.
On economic policy, Vance defended the administration’s flurry of executive orders, asserting that measures to increase energy production and foster job creation would ultimately lower consumer prices. He acknowledged that results would take time but argued the administration was making swift progress in reversing damage from the previous administration. Vance also supported President Trump’s proposal to reform FEMA by decentralizing disaster response, contending that reducing bureaucratic red tape would expedite aid delivery during emergencies.
Regarding immigration, Vance stood by executive orders allowing enforcement actions in churches and schools, prioritizing public safety over concerns about the policy's implications. He criticized the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops for opposing the measures and defended the suspension of refugee admissions, citing concerns over inadequate vetting. He argued that protecting Americans from potential threats outweighs humanitarian considerations.
Addressing pardons for January 6 participants, Vance claimed that the Department of Justice unfairly prosecuted individuals involved, alleging double standards compared to other protests. While condemning violence against police, he maintained that the pardons were necessary to rectify injustices in the legal process.
On big tech reform, Vance reiterated the administration’s commitment to holding companies like Google and Facebook accountable for their influence. Despite their donations to Trump’s inauguration, he insisted that these corporations remain under scrutiny and that the administration would not hesitate to break them up if they failed to respect free speech and constitutional rights.
Throughout the interview, Vice President Vance portrayed the administration as focused on delivering bold reforms and fulfilling campaign promises, even when facing criticism for its disruptive and controversial policies.
Tom Homan, Trump administration border czar, discussed the administration's intensified immigration enforcement strategy in an interview with Martha Raddatz on ABC’s This Week. Homan highlighted the significant role of the military in securing the southern border, including building infrastructure, deploying concertina wire, and assisting with deportation logistics. He emphasized that these actions clearly signal that the U.S. border is “closed.” The administration’s deportation strategy prioritizes public safety and national security threats, such as convicted criminals and gang members. Over time, the scope will expand to include all individuals residing in the U.S. illegally in accordance with existing immigration laws.
Homan criticized sanctuary cities for hindering ICE operations, explaining that such policies lead to “collateral arrests,” where individuals in the country illegally are apprehended alongside targeted individuals. He also defended the administration’s decision to lift restrictions on ICE operations in sensitive locations such as schools, churches, and hospitals, arguing that well-trained officers would use discretion and supervisory oversight to ensure arrests are justified. While Raddatz pressed him on the fear this might create in immigrant communities, Homan maintained that consequences for illegal entry are necessary and emphasized that immigrants should follow legal pathways to seek asylum.
The discussion also touched on the administration’s need for increased funding, including more detention beds—an estimated 100,000—to manage the surge in deportations. Homan called on Congress to provide the resources necessary to enforce immigration laws effectively. He expressed confidence in the administration’s ability to secure cooperation from foreign governments to accept deportees, citing past successes under President Trump’s leadership. Regarding asylum seekers, Homan insisted they should apply legally at embassies or designated entry points rather than crossing the border illegally.
When asked to define success, Homan stated that it would be measured by reducing crimes committed by undocumented immigrants, deporting gang members, and addressing national security threats. While he acknowledged the logistical challenges of deporting all 11 million undocumented immigrants, he emphasized that the administration would prioritize public safety and national security threats with the available resources. Homan argued that the administration’s immigration policies align with enforcing laws enacted by Congress and fulfilling voter expectations on border security.
President Trump held a call with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, during which he expressed condolences for the recent passing of the Prime Minister’s brother and offered words of support during this personal loss. President Trump also conveyed his well wishes to the British Royal Family, acknowledging the importance of their role and stability in the UK.
The conversation included discussions on the recent release of Israeli-British national Emily Damari, who had been held captive by Hamas. Both leaders recognized the significance of her release and explored how their nations could continue cooperating on international security and humanitarian issues. Additionally, they addressed opportunities to strengthen the bilateral economic relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a fair and mutually beneficial partnership.
The White House issued a statement confirming the extension of the current agreement between Lebanon and Israel, which the United States monitors. This agreement, originally established to manage and oversee relations between the two nations, will remain in effect until February 18, 2025. The extension aims to maintain stability and foster continued cooperation under the agreement's terms.
In addition to the extension, the statement highlights a new phase of negotiations. The governments of Lebanon, Israel, and the United States will engage in talks to address the issue of Lebanese prisoners. These prisoners were captured following the events of October 7, 2023. The negotiations are intended to resolve this matter diplomatically and constructively.
This dual announcement underscores the U.S.'s active role in facilitating dialogue and maintaining peace between the two nations while addressing outstanding humanitarian concerns.
The Air Force has removed diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training courses that featured videos about the Tuskegee Airmen and the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs). This decision complies with a Trump-era executive order limiting DEI initiatives. The Tuskegee Airmen were the first Black military pilots and achieved a remarkable WWII combat record, while the WASPs played a vital role in ferrying aircraft to support combat missions.
The Air Force stated it is fully adhering to the executive orders, although the removal of these courses appears to reflect overly broad interpretations to ensure compliance. The nonprofit Tuskegee Airmen Inc. criticized the decision, arguing that these stories are integral to American history and military heritage, not promoting specific demographics.
Both groups have been recognized for their contributions to the military. The Tuskegee Airmen received a Congressional Gold Medal in 2007 and a promotion for one of their members, Charles McGee, in 2020. The WASPs, similarly celebrated, only recently gained the right to be buried in Arlington National Cemetery.
President Trump has issued an executive order establishing the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Review Council to evaluate and improve FEMA’s effectiveness and impartiality in disaster response. The order cites concerns over FEMA’s bureaucracy, resource allocation, and allegations of political bias, such as claims of favoritism in disaster relief based on political affiliations. Additionally, the agency has been criticized for diverting resources to unrelated missions, such as immigration efforts, rather than focusing on its core role in disaster response. The purpose of the Council is to ensure FEMA delivers timely, effective, and impartial aid to Americans during disasters.
The Council will comprise up to 20 members, including the Secretaries of Homeland Security and Defense as Co-Chairs and representatives from federal agencies and non-federal sectors with expertise in disaster relief, budgeting, and emergency preparedness. Non-federal members will provide diverse perspectives and support the Council’s goal of improving FEMA’s operations and enhancing national resilience.
The Council advises the President on FEMA’s performance and structural reforms. Within 180 days of its first public meeting, the Council must produce a comprehensive report assessing FEMA’s responses over the past four years, comparing its efforts with those of state and private sector entities and evaluating the agency’s alignment with its statutory purpose. Public and expert input will be solicited to ensure a broad spectrum of perspectives informs the report.
The Department of Homeland Security will fund and support the Council’s operations, while Council members will serve without compensation, except for reimbursement of travel expenses. The Council will hold its first public meeting within 90 days of the order’s issuance and terminate one year from its date unless the President extends it. This initiative underscores the administration’s commitment to strengthening FEMA’s focus, efficiency, and neutrality in disaster response.
President Trump issued an executive order addressing the recent catastrophic wildfires in Los Angeles and Hurricane Helene in North Carolina, outlining immediate and long-term federal actions to support disaster-stricken communities, enhance disaster preparedness, and address critical infrastructure challenges. It establishes a policy to provide Southern California with essential water resources to prevent and combat wildfires, overriding state and local policies deemed harmful to these efforts. Federal agencies are directed to ensure adequate water supplies by utilizing emergency authorities, expediting actions under environmental laws, increasing water storage and conveyance, and amending federal policies that obstruct effective water management.
The order mandates a review of state land and water management practices to address accountability in California to ensure compliance with federal disaster prevention and response standards. Federal funding will be evaluated to ensure it aligns with sound management practices, and new terms for future funding may be introduced to promote compliance. For Los Angeles, the order directs the development of a housing strategy for wildfire survivors, acceleration of debris removal and rebuilding efforts, and an investigation into the city's misuse of federal preparedness grants.
In North Carolina, the focus is on expediting road clearance and infrastructure rebuilding in areas impacted by Hurricane Helene. Federal agencies are tasked with providing immediate housing relief strategies for displaced families. Across both states, federal agencies must report on actions taken within 15 to 30 days, and implementation of the order must comply with existing laws and budget constraints. This executive order underscores the federal government’s commitment to addressing climate-related disasters by enhancing infrastructure, holding states accountable for effective management, and providing targeted relief to affected communities.
President Trump engaged in a phone call with His Majesty King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain. During the conversation, King Hamad congratulated President Trump on his recent inauguration. The dialogue between the two leaders centered on their mutual commitment to fostering peace and security in the Middle East region. A significant focus of their discussion was their shared efforts to strengthen and build upon the Abraham Accords, a set of agreements aimed at normalizing relations between Israel and several Arab nations. This underscores their dedication to advancing regional stability and cooperation.
Vice President JD Vance sits down with Margaret Brennan on CBS’s Face The Nation
Your sanewashing of the current insanity is nauseating and I can't read this anymore. Thanks for what you did during the previous administration. Good luck to you.