Donald Trump began his second term as U.S. President on a January afternoon. He quickly made several major decisions. These actions shaped America’s role in the world throughout 2025.
A Controversial Start
One of his first acts was to pardon people involved in the U.S. Capitol riot of 2021. He pardoned or reduced sentences for over 1,500 individuals. He said this was the start of a “golden age for America.”
Shifting Foreign Policy
In February, President Trump suspended U.S. military aid to Ukraine. This happened after a tense meeting with Ukraine’s leader, Volodymyr Zelensky. The move left Ukraine more vulnerable to Russian attacks.
Later in the year, Trump proposed a peace plan for Ukraine. The plan involved Ukraine giving up some territory to Russia. It also meant Ukraine would not seek to join NATO. Many European allies saw this as aligning closely with Russian interests.
Trade and Tariffs
President Trump imposed new taxes on imports from several countries. He targeted Chinese goods first. He also placed tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, the UK, and the European Union.
Experts say these tariffs raised costs for American families. One analysis estimated an average tax increase of $1,100 per U.S. household in 2025.
Immigration Crackdown
The White House launched a strict immigration policy. It raised fees for work visas. It paused immigration applications from 19 countries. The administration also began reviewing asylum cases approved under President Biden.
A Royal Welcome in the UK
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer invited President Trump for a state visit. The invitation was delivered by hand in February. King Charles III hosted Trump at Windsor Castle in September.
Trump also made a private trip to Scotland in July. He visited his golf resort there. The trip drew some criticism from local residents.
Social Media Statements
President Trump continued to use his Truth Social platform actively. In one post, he suggested Democratic lawmakers who advised the military to refuse illegal orders were guilty of “seditious behavior.” He said this could be punishable by death.
He later said he was not making a death threat. He clarified he meant they should be arrested and put on trial.
The Epstein Files
Questions about Trump’s past friendship with Jeffrey Epstein continued. Trump had promised to release related files. The Justice Department initially said no more documents would be released. Later, lawmakers passed a bill forcing their release, and Trump signed it. Trump has denied any wrongdoing related to Epstein.
Military Actions
The U.S. military took action in several regions under Trump’s orders. In June, the U.S. joined Israeli airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites. Trump said the facilities were “obliterated.”
The U.S. also seized a large oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela. Officials said it was carrying sanctioned oil.
Looking Ahead
Trump’s presidency in 2025 was marked by bold foreign policy shifts and domestic controversy. His approach to Russia and Ukraine remains a major focus as the world moves into 2026.
