6 Months of Trump 2.0:This blog dives deep into the first six months of Donald Trump’s second term as U.S. President, covering his aggressive “America First” agenda. It explores major developments including sweeping tariffs, a trade war with China, stalled diplomacy in Ukraine, escalating tensions in the Middle East, sharp foreign aid and climate budget cuts, and strict immigration crackdowns. The article also highlights Trump’s domestic moves like tax reforms, government efficiency initiatives, and high-profile fallouts with figures like Elon Musk and Jerome Powell — painting a comprehensive picture of Trump 2.0’s bold and controversial return.
6 Months of Trump 2.0; Here Is What Changed In USA
6 Months of Trump 2.0: The first six months of Donald John Trump’s second term as President of the United States — from January to July 2025 — have brought a series of seismic shifts across domestic and global landscapes. From tariffs and trade wars to renewed immigration crackdowns and contentious foreign policy decisions, Trump’s “America First” agenda has returned with heightened vigor. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of everything that has unfolded in Trump 2.0 so far.
A Tariff Tsunami and Trade Emergency
6 Months of Trump 2.0:On April 2, President Trump declared a national emergency on foreign trade and economic practices. Just three days later, the United States implemented a blanket 10% baseline tariff on all imports, followed by tariff letters being issued to various countries. These new measures included tariffs soaring as high as 50% on some products.
China, unsurprisingly, was at the epicenter of Trump’s trade crackdown. The tariff conflict escalated rapidly, with tit-for-tat countermeasures from both sides. Trump took the US tariffs on Chinese imports up to a staggering 245% at one point. After intense negotiations and pressure, a new deal was struck that established a 30% baseline tariff on most Chinese products.
While Trump had pitched these measures as a way to protect American industry, they brought unintended consequences. The markets reacted negatively, with major declines in investor confidence and stock valuations. Economists flagged a possible long-term dip in GDP growth. Concerns grew about rising consumer prices and the toll on the American middle class.
Foreign Policy Shocks and Strategic Shifts
6 Months of Trump 2.0:One of Trump’s central campaign promises was to end the Russia-Ukraine war “within 24 hours” of taking office. However, six months later, the war rages on. Not only was Trump unable to keep his promise, but a major diplomatic clash with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also made headlines. Their meeting on February 28 ended with public fallout, followed by Trump openly criticizing Ukraine and urging Europe to shoulder the financial burden of the war.
In a marked departure from traditional US foreign policy, Trump aligned himself more closely with Russia at the United Nations. However, this relationship soured over time. Trump eventually reversed course, announcing intentions to supply weapons to NATO, which in turn would arm Ukraine — a move that raised eyebrows globally.
In the Middle East, Trump’s proposed “Riviera of the Middle East” development plan for Gaza was abruptly shelved. Instead, he has continued advocating for the creation of a “freedom zone” in Gaza, although fighting between Israel and Palestinian groups remains intense. A ceasefire is still out of reach.
Tensions between Iran and Israel also flared under Trump’s watch. In keeping with his “maximum pressure” strategy, Trump demanded Iran re-enter a nuclear deal with the United States. No deal has materialized so far. Trump offered unwavering support to Israel while categorically refusing direct US military involvement in the Israel-Iran conflict. However, he did authorize a covert military operation called “Midnight Hammer,” which claimed to target and destroy Iranian nuclear infrastructure.
Drastic Foreign Aid and Climate Cuts
V6 Months of Trump 2.0:Another key focus for Trump has been slashing American contributions to international bodies and development funds. His administration has cut aid to the United Nations and several global climate and humanitarian programs. He reprioritized military spending over civilian aid and tightened the criteria for humanitarian assistance.
Immigration Crackdown and Border Policies
6 Months of Trump 2.0 Trump wasted no time enacting his hardline immigration agenda. On his first day back in office, he signed the “Protecting the American People Against Invasion Order,” triggering a nationwide immigration enforcement wave. Within 100 days, 66,463 undocumented individuals were arrested, and illegal border crossings dropped by a staggering 94%.
The controversial travel ban has been expanded once again, and Guantanamo Bay detentions have been reinstated for specific foreign nationals, reigniting global debate around human rights and due process.
Domestic Moves and the “Big Beautiful Bill”
6 Months of Trump 2.0:On July 5, Trump enacted what he proudly dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill.” The legislation made his 2017 tax cuts permanent, solidifying one of the hallmark policies from his first term. He also launched the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), with the goal of identifying and eliminating government waste. Tech mogul Elon Musk was brought onboard for 130 days to oversee the initiative.
Alongside these changes, Trump made steep cuts to climate change initiatives and other social welfare programs. His administration announced targeted reductions in spending on green energy and environmental protection — once again fulfilling promises made on the campaign trail.
Political Fallout and High-Profile Clashes
6 Months of Trump 2.0:Trump’s second term has also been marked by high-profile fallouts with once-close allies. Elon Musk, initially brought in to lead DOGE, quickly shifted from ally to vocal critic. Their differences intensified over policy priorities embedded in the “Big Beautiful Bill” and the eventual breakdown of their working relationship.
6 Months of Trump 2.0:Another contentious relationship is with Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell. Trump took issue with Powell’s refusal to lower interest rates, even questioning the independence of the Federal Reserve. He floated the idea of firing Powell — a move unprecedented in American history — though he later walked back the suggestion.
Looking Ahead
6 Months of Trump 2.0:Trump’s first six months back in office have been anything but conventional. From global tariffs and diplomatic tensions to domestic tax overhauls and strict border enforcement, the Trump 2.0 presidency is shaping up to be even more aggressive than his first term.