Trump Addresses Congress: Ukraine Minerals Deal and Domestic Policies Take Center Stage

In his first address to Congress in his second term, Donald Trump asserted that Ukraine is ready to finalize a minerals deal, emphasized tariff policies, and reflected on immigration statistics. Promising significant changes, he navigated a charged atmosphere filled with both applause and dissent. The speech marks a pivotal moment in his administration, illustrating deep divides with Democrats and issues on both the domestic and foreign fronts.

In a recent address to Congress, Donald Trump claimed that Ukraine stands ready to finalize a minerals deal at any time. This agreement could offer the United States a share of Ukraine’s natural resources, purportedly compensating for U.S. support following Russia’s invasion. The deal’s status had appeared uncertain after tense discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, but Trump indicated optimism based on a letter from Zelenskyy expressing readiness to negotiate for peace.

Speaking for what turned out to be a record-breaking hour and 40 minutes, Trump focused on various topics, including economic tariffs and immigration challenges. He described tariffs—not only as economic tools but crucial for “protecting the soul of our country.” With tensions rising over tariffs imposed on Canada and Mexico, Trump acknowledged these policies could cause a “little disturbance” but believed the long-term gains would be substantial.

In his speech, Trump reiterated his administration’s stance on border security, asserting it has achieved the lowest numbers of illegal border crossings ever. He touted significant reductions in border apprehensions since the early days of his presidency, though there remains some debate about the specifics of those statistics. Moreover, he highlighted budget cuts from a controversial initiative named DOGE, which he claimed saved significant taxpayer money.

Trump also made a notable assertion regarding Greenland, suggesting that while the country could determine its own fate, it would be welcomed into the United States for national security reasons. He declared, “We need Greenland… and I think we’re going to get it, one way or the other.”

At another moment during the address, Trump made a young brain cancer survivor an honorary member of the Secret Service. The child, DJ Daniel, who had long dreamed of being a police officer, received a standing ovation from the chamber.

As the speech continued, tensions flared when Representative Al Green was ejected for interjecting during Trump’s address. This incident served as a reminder of the charged atmosphere, with some Democrats visibly dissenting while many Trump supporters cheered.

By the end of the evening, the former president declared, “America is back,” to rousing applause. He expressed confidence in the swift accomplishments of his administration, claiming progress in less than two months of his term that many would struggle to achieve in years.

Through all this, it is evident that Trump’s first congressional address of his second term was not just about specific policies, but also served as a platform to assert his ongoing vision for the United States, often clashing with the current political landscape. Overall, the address laid bare divisions among lawmakers, showcasing the stark contrast in perspectives about the nation’s direction under Trump’s leadership.

Donald Trump’s address to Congress highlighted his confidence in upcoming negotiations with Ukraine regarding a minerals deal, amidst discussions on tariffs and immigration policies. While he touted achievements in border security and budget cuts, the tense atmosphere showcased evident divides between Democrats and Republicans. His optimistic claims about America’s future contrasted sharply with critical responses from lawmakers, creating a narrative steeped in both hope and contention. Overall, the speech underscored the complexities of Trump’s second term, revealing ongoing tensions not only internationally but also at home.

Original Source: news.sky.com