Friday, 4 July 2025

President Trump signed a sweeping tax cut and spending bill into law during a July Fourth ceremony. The bill slashes federal safety-net programs including Medicaid and food stamps while increasing funds for immigration enforcement and introduces various tax changes that blend supply-side economics with populist campaign promises.

President Trump used an antisemitic slur when referencing bankers during remarks promoting his tax bill at an Iowa rally. Jewish leaders denounced the use of the term 'Shylock,' a centuries-old antisemitic trope, and Trump stated he did not realize the term was viewed as offensive.

President Trump spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin about the Russia-Ukraine war and said he 'didn't make any progress' on achieving a ceasefire. Hours after the call, Russia launched its largest air attack of the war on Kyiv, striking with a record number of drones and ballistic missiles in a seven-hour assault.

President Trump held a call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and discussed the war and mutual investments. Zelenskyy said the US and Ukraine would work on strengthening air defenses following the conversation, which Trump described as 'meaningful.'

President Trump threatened 17% tariffs on food and farm produce exports from Europe and said the US would begin sending tariff rate letters to trading partners without deals before the end of a 90-day pause on July 9. The EU said it favors a negotiated solution but is prepared for a potential trade war with retaliatory duties.

President Trump announced plans to host a UFC event on White House grounds next year, discussing the proposal with UFC President Dana White during July Fourth celebrations.

Hamas announced it is ready to enter ceasefire negotiations with 'positive spirit' regarding Gaza, with reports indicating the group wants stronger guarantees of a permanent end to the war. Trump stated Hamas should make its decision within 24 hours.

Democratic lawmakers were denied entry to a detention facility called 'Alligator Alcatraz' in Florida, with state lawmakers calling the blockage 'a blatant abuse of power and an attempt to conceal human rights violations.'

The Trump administration's revocation of Temporary Protected Status for Haitian nationals has prompted advocates in Springfield, Ohio to help thousands of US-born Haitian children secure passports before potential deportations occur.

Trump announced the creation of the 'Make America Beautiful Again' commission through an executive order to review protected public lands, with the panel to be led by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum.