Donald Trump Escalates Trade Threats and Pushes for Peace Talks in Last 24 Hours

 In the past 24 hours, President Donald Trump has made critical moves in trade and foreign affairs—threatening tariffs on the EU and Apple while encouraging peace talks between Russia and Ukraine.

President Donald Trump announced potential new tariffs

🇺🇸 Trump Threatens New Tariffs on EU and Apple

On May 23, 2025, President Donald Trump announced potential new tariffs:

• 50% on European Union (EU) imports,

• 25% on iPhones, unless Apple moves manufacturing back to the U.S.

These threats shook the stock market, with the Nasdaq taking a notable dip.

Trump stated that trade talks with the EU were "going nowhere" and warned the tariffs could take effect by June 1.
📌 Source: WSJ | NPR

---

🕊️ Trump Praises Russia–Ukraine Prisoner Swap, Calls for Vatican Peace Talks

In a significant diplomatic statement, Trump praised the largest Russia–Ukraine prisoner exchange since the war began—about 1,000 individuals from each side were released.

He labeled the exchange a "promising step" toward peace and proposed Vatican-hosted peace talks, with Pope Francis as a mediator.

“The world needs peace now. Let’s begin where forgiveness is sacred,” Trump said.
📌 Source: The Sun

---

🏛️ Other Developments in the Past 24 Hours

Harvard vs. Trump Administration

A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration’s move to restrict international student admissions at Harvard University.

Harvard filed a lawsuit citing constitutional violations.
📌 Source: Washington Post

National Security Council Overhaul

Trump announced plans to significantly reduce staff at the National Security Council (NSC), transferring authority to the State and Defense Departments.

Critics say the move may weaken the NSC’s crisis management capabilities.
📌 Source: The Guardian

---

🧭 Conclusion: What These Moves Mean

In just 24 hours, Trump has combined economic pressure with diplomatic posturing. From threatening tariffs that could rattle global markets to calling for a ceasefire through faith-based diplomacy, his strategy is equal parts bold and controversial.

These developments could reshape U.S. relations with both allies and adversaries.
👉 Will Apple bend? Will peace talks happen? Will Harvard fight back?
The next few days could be defining.