1. Phone Call with Putin – Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump spoke by phone for an hour. President Trump focused on efforts to end the conflict in Ukraine as quickly as possible.
2. Proposed Disqualification from Over $50 Billion GSA Procurement Program for Canada
Trump stated on social media that Canada has long restricted access to the Canadian market for US agricultural products and businesses, while enjoying access to the US government procurement market, calling this practice “not reciprocal in trade.”
3. No Opposition to UK-Led Sanctions Against Israel Initiative – According to Axios: US officials and Western diplomats say the Trump administration has not opposed the UK-led initiative to impose new sanctions on Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank.
4. Gifts of $45,000 to Aides – According to Politico: White House filings reveal that President Trump gifted Natalie Harp and two other aides $45,000 worth of holiday gifts.
5. Ban on Imports of Some Canadian Goods, Expanding Tariff Scope
Trump announced that the US will ban imports of Canadian alcohol, some dairy products, and large motorcycles; this move marks a sharp escalation in the trade war, which is primarily based on tariffs. These import bans will take effect on September 29.
6. Reaffirms the effectiveness of the blockade against Iran – US President Trump reiterated that the blockade against Iran is “very effective.” Trump reiterated that Iran will never possess nuclear weapons.
7. Touts US stocks again – US President Trump touted the stock market and economic data.
