by Alfred Ignacio in Politics

President Donald Trump's second term is off to a tumultuous start, marked by a tense Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Trump and Vice President JD Vance sharply criticized Zelensky, causing a diplomatic rift with European leaders who are holding an emergency summit in London to show support for Ukraine. Meanwhile, the Trump administration is pursuing a domestic agenda that includes shaking up the federal workforce with new weekly reporting requirements, and increasing border security measures. Democrats are struggling to formulate a cohesive response to Trump's actions, with some calling for stronger pushback. The proposed US-Ukraine mineral deal is off the table, according to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, following Zelensky's request for security guarantees. There is a sharp divide in opinion, with some Republicans supporting Trump's approach, while others, like Senator Chris Van Hollen, express regret over confirming Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Concerns are rising about the potential for tariffs on Mexico and Canada, impacting trade relations. A CBS/YouGov poll reveals that while Trump's overall approval rating is 51%, public support for his handling of the Ukraine situation is low. European leaders, feeling sidelined by Trump's outreach to Russia, are rallying around Zelensky. Various officials offer differing perspectives on the situation, with Trump's national security adviser, Mike Waltz, suggesting a need for new leadership in Ukraine. The situation is further complicated by conflicting opinions on the best way forward, with some advocating for peace negotiations while others emphasize the need for continued support for Ukraine. Trump's upcoming address to Congress is expected to highlight his accomplishments and future plans, while Democrats are planning their counter-strategy. The incident involving Vice President Vance and Zelensky in the Oval Office is viewed as a deliberate provocation by some, further exacerbating the situation. A CNN poll shows that the American public's view of Trump's presidency is more negative than positive. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is working with other European leaders on a plan to present to the US to stop the fighting, emphasizing the need for a lasting peace. Amidst the chaos, the Trump administration continues to demand weekly reports from federal employees, causing confusion and mixed responses from different agencies.