Trump’s Sixth Week: A Week of Controversy and Confrontation
Donald Trump’s sixth week back in office was dominated by a highly contentious meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, alongside a string of controversial policy moves.
During the meeting on Friday, tensions flared in the Oval Office, with Trump and his Vice President JD Vance reportedly berating Zelenskyy over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Trump accused Zelenskyy of “gambling with world war three,” and the Ukrainian president left the White House early without signing a minerals deal, a key element to unlocking US security guarantees for Ukraine.
The tense exchange ended with Zelenskyy leaving the White House early.
This was a notable departure from the usual diplomatic norms of the White House.
Diplomatic Fallout and Political Reactions
The fallout from the meeting continued into the following days. Zelenskyy sought to reassure allies and insisted a mineral deal was still in the works, though he was met with resistance from some Republican allies like House Speaker Mike Johnson, who suggested Zelenskyy might need to resign. This was viewed by Senator Bernie Sanders as “horrific.” Senator Chris Murphy said Trump’s White House had become “an arm of the Kremlin.”
Elsewhere, European leaders voiced continued support for Ukraine.
Executive Orders and Government Challenges
Beyond the Ukraine crisis, Trump signed an executive order making English the official language of the US. This move was met with strong reactions, including protests against the Trump administration across the US, and in Vermont, where Vance was vacationing.
Adding to the chaos, Musk again sent demands out to federal workers instructing them to email their accomplishments from the previous week. This echoes a similar demand made during the previous week, which caused widespread confusion and chaos across the government workforce.
International Diplomacy and Domestic Controversies
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited the White House, bearing a letter from King Charles, to implore Trump not to abandon Ukraine. While Trump denied calling Zelenskyy a dictator, he suggested Vladimir Putin could be trusted.
Trump also threatened tariffs on the European Union.
Cabinet Meeting and Government Reduction Plans
Trump’s first cabinet meeting was marked by praise for Elon Musk’s plans to reduce the size of the federal government. Musk, though not a cabinet member, took center stage. During the meeting, Trump threatened tariffs on the European Union and announced Zelenskyy’s upcoming visit to sign a mineral deal.
A memo was issued, instructing federal agencies to submit plans for staff reductions by mid-March, potentially leading to a significant decrease in the government workforce.
In a week filled with challenges and controversies, Trump’s actions and statements have set the stage for future debates over U.S. foreign policy and domestic governance.
