President Donald Trump’s week began under the golden confetti of the World Cup finale in New Jersey, showcasing the United States’ global leadership through a five-week tournament that engaged various nations.
However, the days that followed highlighted Trump’s unpredictable approach to foreign policy, as trade disputes, nuclear negotiations, and escalating tensions with both allies and adversaries unfolded.
Trump’s week concluded with a gyrating new nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia, threats to Iranian leaders, and the announcement of tariffs on other nations, including Canada, a World Cup co-host. The Spanish soccer team edited him out of their celebratory photo after he lingered onstage during their victory celebration.
Monday: Tensions with Iran and Tariffs on Canada
At 12:41 p.m., Trump declared that Iran would pay “many times over” for American lives lost, following deadly exchanges between the two nations. An earlier ceasefire collapsed after Iran’s attacks on commercial vessels.
By 12:50 p.m., Trump took to Truth Social, defending Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from arrest while calling for Iranian leaders to face justice, referencing calls from liberal figures to enforce Netanyahu’s warrant after the Gaza conflict.
Later, the Trump administration announced a 50 percent tariff on most Canadian goods unless Canada removed “discriminatory” trade barriers against U.S. products. Trump’s tariff threat followed smoke from Ontario wildfires impacting the U.S.
Tuesday: Continued Threats to Iran
At 2:12 p.m., Trump repeated threats to Iran, insisting the U.S. had been “nice,” despite ongoing bombings. He stated the U.S. military had devastated Iran’s forces but could escalate further.
Wednesday: Strait of Hormuz and Nuclear Deals
By 8:56 a.m., Trump warned of targeting Iranian civilian infrastructure if Iran attacked the Strait of Hormuz, prompting concern from allies. The strait crucially serves as a major oil trade route.
In Georgia, the president criticized Iranian leaders for oil price hikes, pledging a price drop with time.
Later at 4:38 p.m., the administration revealed a new nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia, pending congressional approval. Experts criticized the deal’s weak safeguards against proliferation.
Thursday: Saudi Arabia and Regional Conflicts
Trump linked the nuclear deal to Saudi Arabia joining the Abraham Accords, complicating its approval. Saudi leaders condition Israel ties on Palestinian state establishment.
At 8:16 a.m., Trump held Iran responsible for Houthi attacks on Saudi ships, potentially pressuring oil prices further.
At 6:04 p.m., he claimed ship damage costs would be covered by Iranian funds.
Friday: New Tariffs and International Relations
By 12:01 a.m., new tariffs on numerous countries took effect, as previous tariffs expired. The administration touted the approach against forced labor, while critics saw it as reducing import reliance.
At 11:15 a.m., Trump warned China and Russia against providing arms to Iran.
In the afternoon, Trump disclosed active negotiation efforts with Iran, emphasizing the need to “do it right” without rushing to a resolution.