On April 29, 2025, US President Donald Trump reached the milestone of 100 days into his second term, a traditional moment to assess a president’s early achievements and challenges. Since his inauguration on January 20, Trump’s administration has been marked by sweeping changes in domestic and foreign policy, stirring both strong support and sharp criticism.
Among the key developments, former Republican Senator David Perdue was confirmed as the new US ambassador to China amid escalating tariff tensions between the two nations. The Trump administration recently imposed 145% tariffs on Chinese goods, provoking retaliatory tariffs from Beijing. Perdue described US-China relations as “the most consequential diplomatic challenge of the 21st century,” emphasizing a strategic and bipartisan approach.
In defense policy, Secretary Peter Hegseth announced the disbanding of the Women, Peace & Security program, a Trump-era initiative supporting women in security institutions. Hegseth criticized the program as “woke” and claimed troops opposed it, reflecting a broader rollback of diversity initiatives under the current administration.
Economic concerns have mounted as consumer confidence in the US dropped to its lowest level since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, largely attributed to uncertainty over tariffs and trade policies. The Conference Board’s index fell sharply in April, signaling widespread pessimism about jobs and future income.
In the Arctic, Denmark’s King Frederik visited Greenland amid President Trump’s controversial calls for the US to take control of the semi-autonomous territory. Greenland’s new prime minister firmly rejected the idea, insisting the island is not “a piece of property” to be bought, though he expressed willingness to engage in dialogue.
Trump is also preparing to sign an executive order adjusting auto tariffs, aiming to ease import duties on foreign parts used in US-made vehicles. This move is part of his broader effort to revive domestic manufacturing and protect American jobs, with a rally planned in Michigan to highlight these initiatives.
On immigration, Trump signed a new executive order targeting sanctuary cities that defy federal immigration laws, threatening to withhold federal funds from non-compliant jurisdictions. His administration continues aggressive deportation efforts, with approximately 139,000 removals so far, and plans to ramp up deportations further.
Meanwhile, in Canada, Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberals won a federal election heavily influenced by Trump’s policies and rhetoric. Carney positioned himself as a strong opponent to Trump’s tariff war and annexation remarks, promising to defend Canadian interests amid the US trade conflict.
Despite these bold moves, Trump’s approval ratings remain low, with recent polls showing only 39% of Americans approve of his presidency. Trump dismissed these figures as “Fake News” on social media.
Overall, Trump’s first 100 days of his second term have been transformative and polarizing, reshaping US policy on trade, immigration, defense, and diplomacy while deepening divisions both domestically and internationally.