Donald Trump’s Week in Review: Steel Tariffs, Harvard Clash, and Middle East Tour

 

1. Steel and Aluminum Tariffs Doubled

On May 30, President Trump announced the doubling of tariffs on imported steel and aluminum from 25% to 50%, aiming to protect American industry.
This move followed a federal court ruling that temporarily blocked the new tariffs, but a higher court later allowed the policy to continue during the appeals process.
(Source: The Guardian)

Donald Trump’s Week in Review: Steel Tariffs, Harvard Clash

2. Clash with Harvard University Over “Woke” Ideology

Trump continued his criticism of Harvard University, accusing it of discrimination and promoting “woke ideology.”
His administration froze over $3 billion in research funding and threatened to revoke the school’s tax-exempt status.
Harvard strongly opposed the move, citing violations of academic freedom.
(Source: The Guardian)

3. Middle East Tour: Qatar and UAE

During his May 14–16 visit to Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, Trump signed several major trade and defense deals.
In Qatar, he witnessed a deal for 210 Boeing jets and multi-billion dollar defense contracts.
In the UAE, he received the Zayed Medal and unveiled plans to build the largest AI data center outside the U.S.
(Source: Wikipedia)

4. Statements on NATO and Russia–Ukraine War

After raising concerns about U.S. commitment to NATO, Trump this week offered more reassuring statements, reducing anxiety among European allies.
He reaffirmed America’s support for NATO’s role in countering Russian aggression in Ukraine.
(Source: HuffPost)

5. Elon Musk Resigns from DOGE Office

Elon Musk resigned from the Director of Government Efficiency (DOGE) role, citing disappointment with a $3.8 trillion spending bill that he says undermines budget-saving goals.
Musk stated he would refocus on his companies but remain loosely involved with DOGE.
(Source: The Daily Beast)

Related: Trump Accuses China of Trade Violations, Doubles Steel Tariffs, and Bids Farewell to Elon Musk