Donald Trump’s First Weeks in Office: Controversy and Change

As Donald Trump returned to the White House in January 2025, his first weeks in office were marked by swift action, bold policy moves, and significant controversy.

From rapid foreign policy shifts to domestic economic reforms, the Trump administration has captured global headlines. His return has been met with both strong criticism and dedicated support, but one thing is certain—Trump wasted no time in making his mark on the U.S. government once again.

Trump’s supporters have dubbed him “the bulldozer” for his radical policy-making and “the people’s president,” emphasizing his commitment to prioritizing American citizens above all else.

Controversial decisions and backlash

One of Trump’s most polarizing early decisions was his proposed plan for Gaza. His administration suggested that the U.S. take control of the region, relocate Palestinians to neighboring countries, and transform Gaza into an economic hub.

Trump later proposed relocating Palestinians to the European nations that recognize the State of Palestine and frequently criticize Israel’s actions. However, these countries swiftly rejected the idea.

Spain’s Foreign Minister, José Manuel Albares, declared that “the land of Palestinian Gazans is Gaza” and stated that “no third party should tell us what to do.” Similarly, Ireland’s Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, called Trump’s proposal “provocative” and reiterated that a “two-state solution” remains the only viable path forward.

The proposal sparked mixed reactions, with many nations labeling it a violation of international law and a potential act of ethnic cleansing. Human rights organizations and Arab nations firmly rejected it, warning of the dangers of forced displacement and its long-term implications for Middle East stability.

Trump also proposed a plan to end the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. His plan included implementing a ceasefire along current front lines, pushing both sides into peace negotiations, and using U.S. military and economic aid as leverage in the talks.

A key aspect of the proposal involved Ukraine granting the U.S. access to its vast rare earth mineral reserves as compensation for American military and economic support. While Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected the idea of surrendering land, he did not dismiss U.S.-backed negotiations.

Domestically, Trump’s administration reignited controversy over immigration policies. He reinstated and expanded previous travel bans, drawing outrage from civil rights organizations.

His renewed push to finish the U.S.-Mexico border wall and ramp up deportations triggered protests in multiple major cities. However, his supporters argue that these policies are simply fulfilling campaign promises and protecting national interests.

Another source of criticism centers on Trump’s tariffs on foreign imports, which some fear will harm the economy. Many Americans worry that tariffs could drive up home prices due to increased building costs, and experts predict car prices could rise by $3,000 as supply chains are disrupted by cross-border trade restrictions.

Positive changes and economic growth

Despite the controversies, Trump’s administration has introduced policies that have received positive feedback. One of his flagship economic initiatives was a tax relief package aimed at benefiting small businesses and middle-class families. By cutting corporate tax rates and streamlining the tax code, Trump’s administration argues that these changes will create jobs and stimulate investment.

Additionally, Trump has prioritized American energy independence by accelerating new oil drilling projects and reducing restrictions on domestic energy production. This move has been praised by industry leaders, who believe it will lower energy costs and reduce reliance on foreign oil.

Another major initiative has been deregulation. Trump signed several executive orders to roll back business