Donald Trump News LIVE Updates: Trump fires at least 12 internal govt watchdogs, says US media

Donald Trump News Live: Trump fires at least 12 internal govt watchdogs, says US media

President Donald Trump sacked at least a dozen internal government watchdogs late Friday, US media reported, the latest shake-up of the Republican's second term after less than a week back in office.

Independent inspectors general of at least 12 federal agencies were notified of their immediate dismissals via emails from the White House personnel director, The Washington Post reported, citing unnamed people familiar with the actions.

Inspectors general have an oversight role to detect and deter fraud, waste and abuse by government employees.

They are responsible for investigating violations of laws, regulations and ethical standards by employees, and conducting audits of contracts, finances and staff performance.

Among the federal agencies affected by the ousters were the departments of defense, state, interior and energy, as well as the Environmental Protection Agency and Social Security Administration, the Post said.

Donald Trump News Live: 'How many million people you have in California?': Trump snubs democrat Brad ​​​Sherman's defence of FEMA

During his visit to disaster-hit areas in California and North Carolina, President Donald Trump had a heated exchange with Democratic Representative Brad Sherman, who tried to defend the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) the President has vowed to abolish.
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Brad ​​​Sherman, praised FEMA for its large-scale deployment of personnel in response to the California wildfires, which have caused significant destruction in the state.

“FEMA is doing a good job here. When you have a disaster (like the California wildfires) of this size, you need to deploy thousands of people, which they have been able to do,”​​ said Sherman.

However, Trump was quick to challenge Sherman’s position, questioning the effectiveness of FEMA in handling the crisis. “How many million people do you have in California? Forty million people. You’re not going to get a few thousand?” Trump asked, dismissing the idea that the deployment of personnel was a major issue.

Donald Trump News Live: Democratic states weigh more support for immigrants as Trump administration cracks down

As President Donald Trump tightens the nation's immigration policies, lawmakers in Democratic-led states are proposing new measures that could erect legal obstacles for federal immigration officials and help immigrants lacking legal status avoid deportation. The resistance efforts in California, New York and other states are a counterpoint to the many Republican-led states advancing measures to aid Trump's crackdown on illegal immigration, highlighting a national divide.

In just his first week in office, Trump's administration has halted refugee arrivals; fast-tracked deportations; sent military troops to the southern border; lifted longtime rules restricting immigration enforcement near schools, churches and hospitals; attempted to end birthright citizenship; and ordered federal prosecutors to investigate state or local officials who they believe are interfering with his crackdown on illegal immigration.

Hundreds of bills on immigration already have been introduced in states and more action is expected next week. Republican Govs Ron DeSantis of Florida and Bill Lee of Tennessee have called special legislative sessions to begin Monday to support Trump's immigration agenda.

Meanwhile, Democrats in states such as Connecticut, Hawaii, Massachusetts, New Mexico, Oregon and Washington are backing measures to expand health care and higher education for immigrants, restrict landlords from inquiring about immigration status or block government agreements to open new immigrant detention centers.

Donald Trump News Live: Expelled by Trump’s new immigration policy, hundreds of Guatemalan nationals reach homeland

265 Guatemalan nationals arrived in Guatemala on Friday aboard US military aircraft as part of deportation efforts by the US government following changes to immigration policy under the new Donald Trump administration, the Central American country's migration institute said.

According to the AFP report, these individuals were sent back to their home country on three flights, two of which were military-operated and one chartered. This comes as part of President Donald Trump’s push to tighten border security and reduce illegal immigration. The White House has made it clear that the focus of these deportations is on individuals deemed "criminal aliens" with a history of violent crimes.

Donald Trump News Live: Trump fires 17 inspectors general in late-night shakeup

President Donald Trump fired 17 inspectors general, the internal watchdogs who monitor federal agencies, on Friday night, capping a week of dramatic shake-ups of the federal bureaucracy with a focus on loyalty to the president, three people with knowledge of the matter said to the New York Times.

The sweeping move did not affect Michael E. Horowitz, the inspector general for the Justice Department, according to one of the people with knowledge of the matter. But inspectors general at several major agencies were believed to have been fired, reported NYT.

The Washington Post reported the firings earlier.

People involved in the Trump transition had signaled such a shake-up was likely. And it is in keeping with an effort that Trump began in early 2020, when he dismissed five inspectors general from their roles.

Donald Trump News Live: Senate heads toward confirming Kristi Noem as Trump's homeland security secretary

The Senate is heading towards a vote on confirming South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem as homeland security secretary, placing her at the head of a sprawling agency that will be essential to both national security and President Donald Trump's plans to squash illegal immigration.

Republicans were determined to barrel through on Noem's confirmation, threatening to keep the Senate working through the weekend to install Trump's national security Cabinet officials. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth won confirmation Friday night, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio and CIA Director John Ratcliffe were already in place.

Noem, a Trump ally who is in her second term as South Dakota governor, received some support from Democrats on the Senate Homeland Security Committee when it voted 13-2 to advance her nomination earlier this week. Republicans, who already hold the votes necessary to confirm her, have also expressed confidence in her determination to lead border security and immigration enforcement.

Donald Trump News Live: Mexico ready to work with US to receive its deported citizens: Foreign ministry

Mexico is ready to work with Washington as the administration of President Donald Trump deports Mexican citizens from the United States, the foreign ministry said in a statement Friday.

"We will always accept the arrival of Mexicans to our territory with open arms," the ministry said, after the White House press secretary posted on X that Mexico on Thursday had accepted a record four deportation flights in one day.

Donald Trump News Live: Trump officials pause programs to let in immigrants, including Ukrainians

Homeland Security officials have issued what amounts to a suspension of several programs that temporarily allowed immigrants to settle in the United States, including a crucial initiative for Ukrainians.

In an email obtained by The New York Times, sent Thursday by the top official at US Citizenship and Immigration Services, the directive calls for an immediate halt to "final decisions" on applications tied to these programs while the administration evaluates them and determines whether to discontinue them.

The programs affected by this pause cover a wide range of pathways, preventing immigrants from entering even as they flee some of the world's most unstable and crisis-ridden regions. Besides Ukraine, a nation ravaged by years of conflict, the programs also provided entry opportunities to immigrants from Cuba, Haiti, Venezuela, and others.

This move signals the Trump administration's intention to significantly tighten restrictions on programs that facilitated temporary immigration.

Donald Trump News Live: Interior Department says Gulf of Mexico is now 'Gulf of America'

The Trump administration announced on Friday that it had implemented two major renaming initiatives aligned with the president’s earlier promises. The Gulf of Mexico has been officially renamed the "Gulf of America" within the United States, and North America’s tallest peak, Denali, has reverted to its previous name, Mount McKinley.

Renaming the Gulf for domestic use falls under the administration’s jurisdiction. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has already adopted the new terminology, referencing the "Gulf of America" in a recent winter weather advisory about a low-pressure system moving toward Florida.

However, other nations are not obligated to adopt the change. Following Trump’s initial announcement of the renaming plans, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum humorously suggested renaming the United States as "América Mexicana," or Mexican America.

"The Gulf of America, previously known as the Gulf of Mexico, has played a critical role in the nation’s history and economy," the Interior Department noted in a statement.

Additionally, the US Board on Geographic Names, responsible for managing official geographic nomenclature, is working to expedite the restoration of the name Mount McKinley, as per Trump’s directive.

Donald Trump News Live: Trump executive order prompts National Gallery to end diversity programs

Four years after it mounted a rebranding campaign that focused on diversity, equity and inclusion, the National Gallery of Art in Washington announced that it would end those programs because of an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on Monday that described such initiatives as "illegal and immoral."

Donald Trump News Live: Trump appoints 2 Indian Americans as special assistants

President Donald Trump has appointed two Indian Americans as his special assistants dealing with national security and personnel matters.

Ricky Gill will crucially deal with India at the National Security Council (NSC) as the senior director for South and Central Asian affairs.

Saurabh Sharma will work in the Presidential Personnel office.

Donald Trump News Live: Trump appoints Indian-American ex-journalist as White House Deputy Press Secretary

US President Donald Trump has appointed Indian-American former journalist Kush Desai as his Deputy Press Secretary, the White House has announced. Desai earlier served as Deputy Communications Director for the 2024 Republican National Convention and Communications Director for the Republican Party of Iowa.

Desai was also the Deputy Battleground States and Pennsylvania Communications Director at the Republican National Committee. In this capacity, he played a key role in messaging and narrative building in the key battleground States in particular Pennsylvania.

Donald Trump News Live: Hegseth confirmed as Trump's defense secretary in tie-breaking vote despite turmoil over his conduct

The Senate confirmed Pete Hegseth as the nation's defense secretary Friday in a dramatic late-night vote, swatting back questions about his qualifications to lead the Pentagon amid allegations of heavy drinking and aggressive behavior toward women.

Rarely has a Cabinet nominee faced such wide-ranging concerns about his experience and behavior as Hegseth, particularly for such a high-profile role atop the U.S. military. But the Republican-led Senate was determined to confirm Hegseth, a former Fox News host and combat veteran who has vowed to bring a “warrior culture” to the Pentagon, rounding out President Donald Trump's top national security Cabinet officials.

Vice President JD Vance was on hand to cast a tie-breaking vote, unusual in the Senate for Cabinet nominees, who typically win wider support. Hegseth himself was at the Capitol with his family.

Donal Trump News Live: Trump asks OPEC to cut oil prices, argues it will stop Russia-Ukraine war

US President Donald Trump has asked the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries to cut the prices of oil, arguing that it would stop the Russia-Ukraine war.

He had made a similar claim earlier, too. Addressing the annual World Economic Forum at Davos in Switzerland via video conference, Trump accused the OPEC+ alliance of oil-exporting countries of being responsible for the nearly three-year conflict in Ukraine.

"We want to see OPEC cut the price of oil. That will automatically stop the tragedy that's taking place in Ukraine. It's a butchering tragedy for both sides," the US President told reporters in North Carolina on Friday.

Noting that a large number of Russian and Ukrainian soldiers have died in the conflict so far, Trump said, "Right now, it's just bullets whacking and hitting men. There are over a million men killed, and they are losing thousands of people a week."

"It's crazy. It's a crazy war and it never would have happened if I was president (then). This is crazy that it happened, but we want to stop it."

"One way to stop it quickly is for OPEC to stop making so much money and to drop the price of oil. If you have it high, that war is not going to end so easily. So, OPEC ought to get on the ball and they ought to drop the price of oil. And the war will stop right away," Trump added.

Donald Trump News Live: Senate holds dramatic late-night vote on Trump's defence secretary pick, Hegseth

In a dramatic late-night session, the Senate is voting on the nomination of Pete Hegseth as defence secretary who vows to bring a “warrior culture” to the Pentagon despite questions over qualifications and allegations of heavy drinking and aggressive behavior toward women.

Rarely has a Cabinet nominee faced such wide-ranging concerns about his experience and behavior as Hegseth, particularly for such a high-profile role leading the US military. But the Republican-led Senate was determined to confirm Hegseth, a former Fox News host and combat veteran, to deliver President Donald Trump's and round out his top national security Cabinet officials.

Vice President JD Vance was expected in the Senate, in the likely event he would be needed to break a tie, and Hegseth himself was at the Capitol with his family to watch the vote.

Donald Trump News Live: Saudi crown prince says kingdom intends to invest $600 billion in US during call with Trump

Saudi Arabia’s crown prince said the kingdom wants to invest $600 billion in the United States over the next four years, comments that came after President Donald Trump put a price tag on returning to the kingdom as his first foreign trip.

Trump’s 2017 trip to Saudi Arabia upended a tradition of modern US presidents typically first heading to Canada, Mexico or the United Kingdom as their first trip abroad. It also underscored his administration's close ties to the rulers of the oil-rich Gulf states as his eponymous real estate company has pursued deals across the region as well.

The comments from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, reported early Thursday by the state-run Saudi Press Agency, came in a phone call with Trump. It was Trump's first call with a foreign leader since his inauguration Monday.

“The crown prince affirmed the kingdom’s intention to broaden its investments and trade with the United States over the next four years, in the amount of $600 billion, and potentially beyond that,” the report said.

Donald Trump News Live: Trump administration directs federal agencies to start terminating diversity staff

The administration of President Donald Trump on Friday directed federal agencies to start terminating staffers working in positions related to diversity programs, after placing them on paid leave earlier this week.

"Each agency, department, or commission head shall take action to terminate, to the maximum extent allowed by law, all DEI, DEIA, and 'environmental justice' offices and positions within 60 days," said a memo from the US Office of Personnel Management, referring to jobs aimed at boosting "diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility."

Donald Trump News Live: Trump visits California, slams FEMA’s response to wildfires and hurricanes

He said FEMA "has been a very big disappointment," and described it as slow, overly bureaucratic and expensive for the federal government.

"FEMA's turned out to be a disaster," he added. "I think we're going to recommend that FEMA go away and we pay directly, we pay a percentage, to the state, and the state should fix it."

Trump's desire to eliminate or curtail FEMA could have chilling effects on emergency response even at state levels, according to former FEMA Chief Deanne Criswell.

President Donald Trump is in his fifth day of his second term, focusing on asserting executive power. He toured disaster-stricken areas, visiting hurricane-hit North Carolina and wildfire-damaged Los Angeles. Trump and California Governor Gavin Newsom exchanged cordial words, despite their political rivalry. Newsom expressed hope for federal cooperation, while Trump pledged to help. Some residents, like Ron Flury, support Trump’s stance on withholding federal aid to push for policy changes, seeing it as a necessary negotiation tactic for California’s wildfire response.

Donald Trump News Live: Senate is preparing to confirm Hegseth as defense secretary in late evening vote

The Senate is pushing forward Pete Hegseth's confirmation as defense secretary despite serious allegations against him, including claims of sexual assault and abusive behaviour towards his ex-wife. While some Republicans, like Senators Murkowski and Collins, oppose him due to concerns over his views on women in combat, the majority of the GOP is rallying behind him. Hegseth, a combat veteran and former Fox News host, vows to instill a "warrior culture" at the Pentagon and promised to refrain from drinking if confirmed.

His confirmation is a significant win for President Trump, who is also pushing for the confirmation of other controversial nominees. As the Senate moves towards voting, Trump’s influence on the GOP is evident, though some Republicans are wary of supporting nominees with problematic pasts. Hegseth’s leadership would oversee a vast military with a budget of $850 billion, but concerns remain over his suitability and behaviour.

Donald Trump News Live: Trump threatens aid cutoff on US disaster zone visits

US President Donald Trump visited disaster zones in North Carolina and California on Friday, using the trips to push his political agenda on emergency aid and migration. Trump announced plans to potentially scrap the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), criticising its response to Hurricane Helene’s aftermath in North Carolina. He said he would sign an executive order to either reform or dismantle the agency, suggesting that aid could be handled directly by states.

In California, where wildfires have caused significant damage, Trump threatened to withhold federal assistance unless the state implements voter ID laws and addresses water management issues. He falsely claimed that opening a valve could solve California's drought problems. Despite previous tensions, he met with Governor Gavin Newsom and expressed willingness to collaborate on disaster recovery.

Trump also focused on his immigration agenda, highlighting the launch of deportation flights carrying undocumented migrants, marking a shift from typical civilian transport. He celebrated the deportation of "bad, hard criminals," including murderers, and continued his criticism of President Biden's handling of border security.

Additionally, Trump participated in the "March for Life" anti-abortion rally, reaffirming his stance on pro-life policies, and he had recently signed pardons for anti-abortion protesters. His visit underscored his commitment to reshaping US policies on disaster response, migration, and social issues.

Donald Trump News Live: Trump proposes 'getting rid of FEMA' while visiting North Carolina

During a visit to disaster zones on Friday, President Donald Trump indicated he was considering "getting rid of" the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), citing its bureaucratic inefficiency and slow response. He suggested that federal funds should be provided directly to states instead of channeled through FEMA. Trump was in North Carolina, where recovery from Hurricane Helene has been slow, and emphasised the need for state-led disaster management.

Trump criticised FEMA’s performance in North Carolina and highlighted that Michael Whatley, the chair of the Republican National Committee, would oversee recovery efforts in the state. Trump also hinted at extracting concessions from North Carolina’s Democratic-led government in exchange for disaster aid, including changes to water policies and voter ID requirements.

Later, in California, Trump toured areas devastated by wildfires. He was received by Governor Gavin Newsom, with whom he has had a contentious relationship, but both appeared open to collaboration. Trump has been critical of California's water policies, which he claims contributed to the severity of the fires, and suggested these policies needed to change.

Trump’s comments reflect his broader stance on limiting the federal government's role in disaster management, echoing conservative calls for reducing federal spending and responsibility. Meanwhile, FEMA has provided $319 million in assistance, but many residents continue to feel neglected.

Donald Trump News Live: Zelenskyy says Putin trying to 'manipulate' Trump

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Friday that Russian President Vladimir Putin is attempting to "manipulate" Donald Trump through his remarks about being open to talks with the United States.

“He is trying to exploit the desire of the President of the United States to bring about peace,” Zelensky stated during his daily evening address on social media. “I am confident that no Russian manipulation will succeed any longer.”

Donald Trump News Live: Target is ending its DEI goals as workplace inclusion gets a strong opponent in the White House

Target announced on Friday that it would reduce its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, joining rivals like Walmart in scaling back similar efforts. The Minneapolis-based retailer revealed it would discontinue its “Belonging at the Bullseye” strategy, which was introduced in response to George Floyd’s death in 2020. This programme aimed to support Black employees, improve the shopping experience for Black customers, and promote Black-owned businesses. Additionally, Target will end the three-year cycle goals related to DEI, which included increasing the hiring of women, racial minorities, and diverse suppliers.

Kiera Fernandez, Target’s Chief Community Impact and Equity Officer, described this shift as part of a “next chapter” in the company’s long-standing commitment to inclusivity. The retailer cited the evolving external landscape, including changing social and political dynamics, as a reason for the adjustment. In recent years, following the Black Lives Matter movement and the 2023 US Supreme Court ruling against affirmative action in college admissions, many conservative groups have ramped up efforts to challenge corporate DEI programmes. Companies such as Walmart, McDonald's, Ford, and John Deere have similarly reduced their DEI commitments.

Target’s shift follows growing conservative pushback against policies prioritising minority representation, and President Trump’s previous executive order aimed at eliminating DEI programmes in federal agencies. However, despite these changes, some companies like Costco have resisted such pressure, with shareholders recently rejecting a proposal to evaluate DEI risks.

Donald Trump News Live: As Trump ramps up immigration enforcement, Newark slams ICE over arrests there

The Trump administration announced on Friday the nationwide expansion of its fast-track deportation authority, allowing immigration officers to deport migrants without judicial oversight. This move is part of President Trump’s broader agenda to remove all individuals in the US illegally. The decision to extend expedited removal comes amid controversy in Newark, New Jersey, where local officials condemned federal immigration officers for what they deemed illegal arrests at a local business.

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, speaking at a press conference, expressed outrage over the detention of three undocumented residents and several US citizens by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. He revealed that one individual was questioned despite presenting military identification. Baraka, a Democrat running for governor, vowed to fight for the rights of all residents, regardless of their immigration status.

ICE described the incident as a “targeted enforcement operation,” asserting that officers may request identification during such operations. This move is in line with Trump’s broader efforts to intensify immigration enforcement, which include military deployment at the border, lifting restrictions near schools and churches, and suspending certain refugee programs.

The expansion of expedited removal, which allows deportations without judicial hearings, will enhance national security, according to the administration, though critics warn of potential abuses.

Donald Trump News Live: Trump ends Fauci's security detail and says he'd feel no responsibility if harm befell him

President Donald Trump has ended the federal security detail for Dr. Anthony Fauci, the infectious disease expert who advised him during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a source on Friday. Fauci joins a list of former Trump aides-turned-critics whose federal protection has been revoked despite ongoing threats to their safety.

In a statement in North Carolina, Trump said he would not take responsibility if harm came to these former officials. The source, speaking anonymously, revealed Fauci’s security was terminated on Thursday, and Fauci has since arranged private security. Trump added that those who had made significant money, like Fauci, could afford their own protection.

Earlier in the week, Trump also removed security for former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, his aide Brian Hook, and ex-National Security Adviser John Bolton, all of whom had faced threats from Iran. Both the Trump and Biden administrations had provided these officials with protection due to credible threats.

Donald Trump News Live: Americans question Elon Musk’s role in Trump’s government reform plan

A new AP-NORC poll reveals mixed opinions on President Trump's plans for government reform, including his advisory body on efficiency led by Elon Musk. While most Americans agree the federal government struggles with corruption and inefficiency, only 3 in 10 support Musk's involvement. There is widespread scepticism about billionaires influencing policy, with 6 in 10 viewing it negatively. Popular proposals include a return-to-office policy for federal workers, while eliminating federal jobs and moving agencies outside Washington see less support. Many remain neutral or undecided on these reforms, leaving room for shifting opinions.

Donald Trump News Live: Afghan refugees in Pakistan seek visa extensions amid US refugee program pause

Afghan refugees in Pakistan have appealed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to extend their visas following the suspension of the US refugee program by President Donald Trump. Approximately 20,000 Afghans in Pakistan, including 1,600 cleared for resettlement in the US, face uncertainty and dire conditions. Refugees, many of whom worked with US forces and organisations in Afghanistan, fear returning due to Taliban persecution. Advocacy groups and individuals have called on Pakistan to ease visa restrictions and reduce fees, while urging the US and international agencies to fulfil their commitments. Pakistan's government stated it has not received official updates from the US on the suspension.

Donald Trump News Live: UK pushes back on Trump tariffs, citing trade surplus in Davos talks

The British government is working to convince US President Donald Trump not to impose tariffs on UK trade. Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds pointed out that the US does not have a trade deficit with the UK on manufactured goods, making tariffs unnecessary. Trump's tariff agenda aims to boost the US economy and serve as leverage for broader policy goals. While advocating for Britain's global trade appeal at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Reynolds also highlighted progress in improving trade relations with the EU post-Brexit. Chancellor Rachel Reeves echoed this optimism, urging global investors to consider Britain a prime destination for innovation and growth.

Donald Trump News Live: Former Indian diplomat comments on restricting birthright citizenship, suggests other judges may support the move.

Former Indian diplomat KP Fabian noted that one federal judge has temporarily blocked US President Donald Trump's order restricting birthright citizenship and added that other judges might take similar action. He said that the matter will ultimately reach the Supreme Court where he said it is believed that most of the judges are "conservative or pro-Trump" and they might uphold it.

In an interview with ANI, Fabian stressed that the decision was against the 14th amendment of the US constitution. He also mentioned that some expecting mothers were hurrying with the delivery in the US and stressed that it was not wise to take such a decision which can have consequences for just to have American citizenship.

On being asked about US judge's decision to temporarily block Trump's order restricting birthright citizenship, he said, former Indian diplomat said, "Now, Trump as the head of the executive wing passed an executive order, against which 20 or more states went to the court now and not only the states but mainly the Democratic ruled states. Now one federal district judge has said that he has stayed it. Now we can imagine the other judges might also do the same thing but finally it will go to the Supreme Court where it is believed mark my words it is believed we are not sure that a majority of judges are conservative or pro-Trump."

Japan PM seeks a meeting with US President Donald Trump

Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba stressed on Friday the importance of close ties with the United States for regional stability, as he seeks to arrange a meeting with President Donald Trump.

"As the balance of power in the region undergoes a historic change, we must deepen Japan-US cooperation further, in a concrete manner," Ishiba told parliament.

Tokyo must also "continue to secure the US commitment to the region, to avoid a power vacuum leading to regional instability", he added in a policy speech.

His comments underscored jitters over China's military build-up in the Asia-Pacific and Trump's "America First" policies, which may include demanding that allies such as Japan shoulder a larger proportion of defence costs.

Donald Trump News Live: Beijing says China, US can solve differences with 'dialogue'

Beijing said Friday the US and China could resolve their differences through "dialogue" and denied deliberately pursuing a trade surplus with the United States.

"China-US economic and trade cooperation is mutually beneficial and win-win," foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said, after Trump said he would "rather not" impose tariffs on China.

Donald Trump News Live: Trump says he'd 'rather not' put tariffs on China

US President Donald Trump said he would "rather not" impose tariffs on China, after repeated pledges on the campaign trail to hit America's biggest economic rival with hefty import levies.

Asked in an interview with Fox News if he could make a deal with Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Taiwan and trade, Trump replied: "I can do that because we have something that they want, we have a pot of gold."

"We have one very big power over China, and that's tariffs, and they don't want them, and I'd rather not have to use it. But it's a tremendous power over China," the mercurial president said in the interview which aired Thursday in the United States.

After taking office on Monday, Trump said 10 percent tariffs on all Chinese imports could kick in on February 1 -- and on the campaign trail touted a levy as high as 60 percent.

Donald Trump News Live: Trump signed orders declaring 'national emergency' at southern border

Trump promised a crackdown on illegal immigration during the election campaign and began his second term with a series of executive actions aimed at overhauling entry to the United States.

He has signed orders declaring a "national emergency" at the southern border and announced the deployment of more troops to the area while vowing to deport "criminal aliens."

Early on Thursday, Newark city mayor Ras J. Baraka said in a statement that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents "raided a local establishment... detaining undocumented residents as well as citizens, without producing a warrant".

Earlier in the week the Republican-led US Congress green-lit a bill to expand pretrial incarceration for foreign criminal suspects.

The White House 538 total arrests and 373 detainers lodged

US arrests 538 'illegal immigrant criminals': Trump's press secretary

Donald Trump News Live: Fire-hit California frets over Trump's funding threats

As fire-wrecked Los Angeles braces for a visit by President Donald Trump, many are worrying the Republican will yank the federal support the city needs to get back on its feet.

Trump is due in the shell-shocked city for a few hours on Friday afternoon, where he will be able to see for himself the devastation wrought by the deadly fires -- damage whose repair will cost billions of dollars.

Former president Joe Biden was quick to pledge whatever was needed to deal with the disaster in the waning days of his administration.

But almost as soon as the fires erupted, Trump began sticking the boot in, lashing out at California Governor Gavin Newsom, and resurrecting an earlier hobbyhorse about water supplies.

"I don't think we should give California anything until they let the water run down," Trump said this week, emphasizing his false belief that there is a valve in northern California that can be turned to release billions of gallons (liters) of water in the rain-starved state.

Donald Trump News Live: Trump targets California water policy as he prepares to assess LA fire damage

As President Donald Trump prepares to visit wildfire-stricken areas in California, he has shifted focus to one of his recurring criticisms: the state’s water policy.

Since the fires began on 7 January, Trump has claimed through social media and interviews that California diverts too much water to the Pacific Ocean instead of directing it south toward Los Angeles. He also pointed to reports of dry hydrants during the initial firefight in Pacific Palisades.

In the early hours of his second term, Trump instructed federal officials to draft plans for diverting more water to the agricultural Central Valley and the populous cities of southern California. Just two days later, he warned California leaders that federal disaster aid could be withheld unless changes are made to the state’s water management approach.

Trump administration prepare to expel migrants allowed in temporarily by Biden

The Trump administration has authorised Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers to deport migrants who were temporarily allowed into the United States under Biden-era initiatives, according to an internal government memo obtained by The New York Times.

Signed by the acting head of the Department of Homeland Security on Thursday, the memo outlines how ICE officers can leverage broad deportation powers which were earlier reserved for border enforcement. These powers now appear to target migrants admitted through two major Biden-era programs that have provided temporary entry to over a million individuals.

The first program involves the CBP One app, which allowed migrants to schedule appointments to enter the US legally. The second initiative facilitated entry for certain migrants fleeing crises in Cuba, Nicaragua, Venezuela, and Haiti. Both programs were central to the Biden administration’s strategy to create legal pathways for migration while reducing illegal crossings.

Trump to reach out to North Korea's Kim again

US President Donald Trump announced in an interview that he will be reaching out to to Kim Jong Un again, calling the North Korean leader a "smart guy."

The Republican had a rare diplomatic relationship with the reclusive Kim during his previous administration from 2017 to 2021, not only meeting with him but saying the two "fell in love."

But his own secretary of state, Marco Rubio, acknowledged at his confirmation hearing that the effort did not produce any lasting agreement to end North Korea's nuclear program.

When asked during a Fox News interview if he would "reach out" to Kim again, Trump replied: "I will, yeah. He liked me."

North Korea says it is seeking nuclear weapons to counter threats from the United States and its allies, including South Korea.

The two Koreas remain technically at war since the 1950 to 1953 conflict ended in an armistice not a peace treaty.

The isolated and impoverished North, which has conducted multiple nuclear tests and periodically test fires missiles from its ballistic arsenal, also likes to tout its nuclear program as a sign of its prestige.

'Preview into the work the Trump administration is doing': White House

The Senate voted to advance the nomination of Pete Hegseth, President Donald Trump's choice for Defense Secretary, in a closely contested test vote on Thursday. The vote to end debate narrowly passed with 51 Republican votes, despite opposition from two GOP senators, Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins.

A final confirmation vote on Hegseth's nomination could take place as early as Friday or Saturday, according to ABC News. The procedural vote came after the Senate Armed Services Committee advanced Hegseth's nomination in a 14-13 party-line vote earlier this week.

The Senate confirmed John Ratcliffe as CIA director on Thursday, making him President Donald Trump's second successful cabinet appointment.Ratcliffe, a former director of national intelligence and a Texas Republican, is the first person to have held both positions.

At his Senate hearing last week, Ratcliffe emphasised the need for the CIA to improve its use of technology, such as artificial intelligence, to confront adversaries like Russia and China while also ensuring the protection of Americans' civil rights. He pledged to push the agency to harness technologies like AI and quantum computing and expand the use of human intelligence collection.

President Donald Trump downplayed the public dispute between tech CEOs Elon Musk and Sam Altman over a $500 billion AI project announced by the White House on Tuesday.Musk had expressed doubt about the participating companies' ability to fund the project, but Trump attributed the criticism to personal animosity between Musk and Altman.

"No, he hates one of the people," Trump said, referring to Musk's apparent dislike of Altman, without actually naming anyone.

"I've spoken to Elon, but—spoken to all of them, actually. The people in the deal are very, very smart people– but Elon, one of the people in the deal he happens to hate. But I have certain hatreds of people too," he added.

Judge blocks Trump's executive order to end birthright citizenship, citing unconstitutionality

US President Donald Trump's executive order seeking to terminate birthright citizenship in the United States has been temporarily blocked by a federal judge in Seattle, calling the policy "blatantly unconstitutional," news agency CNN reported.

Issuing a temporary restraining order on Thursday, Judge John Coughenour, a Reagan appointee, responded to a legal challenge by Washington Attorney General Nick Brown and three other Democratic-led states. The restraining order halts the implementation of the policy for 14 days, allowing for further legal briefings.

"I have been on the bench for over four decades. I can't remember another case where the question presented was as clear," Judge Coughenour stated, expressing disbelief that the executive order could have been signed. "Where were the lawyers" when this decision was made, the judge asked, saying it "boggled" his mind that any legal professional would assert the order's constitutionality.

Congressional resolution introduced for constitutional amendment to allow 3rd term for US president

A Republican lawmaker has introduced a resolution in the US House of Representatives to amend the Constitution, proposing that a president be allowed to serve up to three terms. Congressman Andy Ogles, who introduced the House Joint Resolution, stated that the amendment is aimed at enabling a potential third term for former President Donald Trump.

"This amendment would allow President Trump to serve three terms, ensuring that we can sustain the bold leadership our nation so desperately needs," he said.

"It is imperative that we provide President Trump with every resource necessary to correct the disastrous course set by the Biden administration. President Trump has shown time and time again that his loyalty lies with the American people and our great nation above all else.

The proposed amendment states: "No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than three times, nor be elected to any additional term after being elected to two consecutive terms, and no person who has held the office of President, or acted as President, for more than two years of a term to which some other person was elected President shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice."

Putin should make deal with Ukraine, Zelenskyy ready to negotiate: Trump on Russia-Ukraine war

US President Donald Trump has urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to "make a deal" with Ukraine, emphasising the need to end the ongoing conflict. Speaking on Truth Social on Wednesday, Trump, who assumed office as the 47th President of the United States on January 20, also warned of imposing high tariffs and additional sanctions on Russia if the war continues.

Addressing reporters in the Oval Office on Thursday, Trump stated, "I think he (Putin) should make a deal." When asked if sanctions would pressure Putin into negotiating, he responded, "I don't know."

He added,"Russia should want to make a deal. Maybe they want to make a deal. I think, from what I hear, Putin would like to see me. And we'll meet as soon as we can. I'd meet immediately. Soldiers are being killed on the battlefield."

US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order mandating the declassification of records related to the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, Senator Robert F Kennedy, and Reverend Dr Martin Luther King Jr, declaring it is time for the American people to learn the "truth."

In a statement accompanying the detailed document, the White House said, "After six decades of secrecy, it is time to provide Americans with the truth."

The executive order sets a policy recognising that, more than 50 years after these historic assassinations, both the victims' families and the American public have a right to transparency.

The directive instructs the Director of National Intelligence and other relevant officials to present a plan within 15 days for the full and complete release of all records related to John F Kennedy’s assassination and to review the records concerning the assassinations of Robert F Kennedy and Martin Luther King Jr and deliver a plan for their full release within 45 days.

Trump signs executive order to form internal working group on cryptocurrencies

US President Donald Trump has issued an executive order to establish an internal working group on cryptocurrency, with the aim of making the United States global leader in digital finance. The order also bans the creation of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) in the country.

Chaired by White House AI and Crypto Czar David Sacks, the group will develop a federal regulatory framework for digital assets, including stablecoins, and explore the establishment of a strategic national digital assets stockpile. Key members include the Secretary of the Treasury and the Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The executive order repeals the previous administration's Digital Assets Executive Order and the Treasury Department's Framework for International Engagement on Digital Assets, which the Trump administration criticised for obstructing innovation and threatening the nation’s economic independence and leadership in global digital finance.

Trudeau says Americans will pay more whenever Trump decides to impose tariffs on Canada

Outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warned on Thursday that American consumers would face higher prices if President Donald Trump proceeds with plans to impose tariffs on Canadian goods. Trump intends to levy 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico from February 1, despite earlier threats. Trudeau stated that retaliatory tariffs would be introduced, causing costs for American consumers to rise. He highlighted that tariffs on Canadian oil could increase gas prices by over a dollar per gallon in some US states. With Canada being a key supplier of oil, critical minerals, and steel, Trudeau urged the US to collaborate more closely with Canada. In response to Trump's tariffs, Canada would consider imposing duties on items like orange juice, toilets, and steel. Trudeau emphasised that while retaliatory actions would hurt both nations, they would ultimately aim to remove tariffs and prevent further economic harm.