New Delhi: US President Donald Trump, in his first address to a joint session of Congress since beginning his second term on January 20, declared that “America is back”, promising an economic and political resurgence. His speech, marked by bold statements and sharp attacks on opponents, focused on his administration’s achievements, trade policies, and global strategy.

“We are just getting started. Our country stands on the brink of a comeback unlike anything the world has ever seen—and perhaps will ever see again.”

His address came as Washington escalated its trade war, imposing tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, signaling a major shift in economic policy.

Trump Highlights Achievements, Calls Biden ‘Worst President’

Trump touted his accomplishments, claiming to have achieved more in six weeks than most administrations do in four or eight years.

“We accomplished more in 44 days,” he asserted. “From that moment on, it has been nothing but swift and unrelenting action to launch the greatest and most successful era in our nation’s history.”

The speech also included sharp criticisms of the Democratic Party, particularly former President Joe Biden.

“This is my fifth address to Congress, and once again, I look at the Democrats before me and realize there is nothing I can say to make them stand, smile, or applaud.”

His remarks were met with enthusiastic cheers from Republican lawmakers, who repeatedly chanted “USA! USA!”

‘America Will Be Woke No Longer’ – Trump’s Cultural Stance

Trump doubled down on his anti-woke stance, emphasizing that hiring decisions should be based on skill and competence, not race or gender.

“Our country will be woke no longer.”

He announced measures to ban diversity and inclusion programs within the federal government and pledged to restore free speech in the country.

Additionally, Trump referenced his recent executive order that:
Designates English as the official language of the United States
Renames the ‘Gulf of Mexico’

He also claimed that his administration had scrapped the “ridiculous Green New Scam”, referring to the clean energy and environmental policies introduced under Biden’s tenure.

“The days of being ruled by unelected bureaucrats are over.”

‘Reciprocal Tariffs to Begin April 2’ – Trade War Intensifies

Trump singled out several countries, including India, South Korea, Canada, Mexico, and China, accusing them of imposing unfair tariffs on American imports.

“On April 2nd, I wanted to make it April 1st, but didn’t want it to be accused of April Fools’ Day… it’s a lot of money… April 2nd reciprocal tariffs kick in. Whatever they tax us, we will tax them.”

Trump hinted that his tariff strategy would extend beyond monetary barriers, saying:

“If they do non-monetary tariffs, we will keep non-monetary barriers to keep them out of our market.”

Trump on Ukraine War: ‘Time to Stop This Madness’

On the Russia-Ukraine war, Trump claimed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had reached out to him, expressing readiness for negotiations.

“Nobody wants peace more than the Ukrainians.”

Trump also revealed that Russia had given strong signals that they were ready for peace, adding:

“Wouldn’t that be beautiful? Wouldn’t that be beautiful? It’s time to stop this madness. It’s time to halt the killings.”

Additionally, he suggested that Ukraine was willing to sign an agreement to give the US access to its rare materials in exchange for support.

Trump’s Bold Foreign Policy Plans: ‘We Are Going to Get Greenland’

In a surprise announcement, Trump declared his administration’s intention to reclaim the Panama Canal and acquire Greenland.

“To further enhance our national security, my administration will be reclaiming the Panama Canal, and we’ve already started doing it.”

On Greenland, he was equally direct:

“I think we’re gonna get it—one way or the other we’re gonna get it.”

This statement revives his 2019 interest in purchasing Greenland, a move that was rejected by Denmark at the time.

A Speech Marked by Bold Promises and Aggressive Policies

Trump’s fiery address to Congress reinforced his America First agenda, focusing on economic revival, cultural policies, trade wars, and foreign strategy. His declarations on:
Ending ‘woke’ policies
Reciprocal tariffs on countries like India and China
A possible resolution to the Ukraine war
Reclaiming Panama and acquiring Greenland

…all signal a dramatic shift in US policy direction.

With reciprocal tariffs kicking in from April 2 and new geopolitical moves in motion, the coming months will be crucial in determining the impact of Trump’s second-term policies on both the US and the global economy.

What were the key highlights of Trump’s speech to Congress?

• Trump celebrated his achievements, announced reciprocal tariffs, vowed to end diversity programs, discussed Ukraine peace talks, and revealed plans to acquire Greenland.

How does Trump plan to handle trade disputes?

• He introduced reciprocal tariffs, meaning any country that taxes US goods will face the same tariff rates.

What did Trump say about Ukraine?

• He claimed both Ukraine and Russia are ready for peace talks and suggested Ukraine might give the US access to its rare materials.

Why does Trump want to acquire Greenland?

• Trump has long expressed interest in Greenland due to its strategic location and natural resources.

How did Trump criticize Biden?

• He called Biden the worst president and mocked Democrats for not applauding during his speech.