In a record-breaking 99-minute address to Congress, U.S. President Donald Trump outlined his administration’s top priorities, including a renewed push for peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, new tariff policies targeting global trade, and his ongoing interest in acquiring Greenland.
The highly anticipated speech marked Trump’s first official address to Congress since returning to office and touched on critical issues such as the U.S. economy, border security, immigration enforcement, and global diplomacy.
“America’s comeback is unstoppable. Our economy, spirit, and strength are back like never before,” Trump said during his remarks.
Key Highlights from Trump’s Congressional Address
Trump Announces Restart of Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks
A major focus of Trump’s speech was the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Trump shared that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had sent him a letter expressing readiness to resume peace negotiations, following months of stalled discussions.
“We are prepared to work under President Trump’s leadership to achieve lasting peace,” Zelenskyy wrote, according to Trump.
Trump also mentioned progress with Russian officials, stating that Moscow had sent “positive signals” about peace. He expressed hope that both nations could be closer than ever to ending the conflict.
“Wouldn’t that be beautiful?” Trump added, highlighting his optimism for a historic peace agreement.
New Tariff Policies on Global Trade
Shifting to economic matters, Trump criticized several countries — including the European Union, Mexico, India, and Brazil — for what he described as unfair trade practices.
Trump announced that starting April 2, 2025, the U.S. will implement reciprocal tariffs to match the taxes imposed on American exports.
“Whatever they tax us, we will tax them,” Trump said, pledging that the move would generate trillions of dollars in revenue and revive American manufacturing.
The announcement follows recent tariffs on Canada and Mexico, which have already sparked retaliatory actions, fueling fears of a potential trade war.
Trump Revives Greenland Acquisition Plan
Revisiting his previous ambitions, Trump reiterated his desire for the United States to acquire Greenland, which is currently a territory of Denmark. Trump described Greenland as strategically important for national security and economic growth.
“I think we’re going to get it, one way or another,” Trump said, referring to ongoing discussions about the island, which hosts a critical U.S. military base.
Trump argued that the deal would benefit both Greenland’s economy and U.S. national security, framing the acquisition as a win-win scenario.
Border Security and Immigration Crackdown
Trump also pushed for tougher border security measures, particularly against fentanyl trafficking. He praised Mexico for extraditing cartel leaders but demanded stronger cooperation to combat the deadly drug’s flow into the U.S.
Additionally, Trump called on Congress to approve funding for what he described as “the largest deportation operation in U.S. history,” reinforcing his strict stance on immigration enforcement.
Economic Recovery and Inflation Relief
Trump promised to “rescue” the U.S. economy from what he called an “inflation disaster” caused by previous administrations. He cited rising costs of essential items, like groceries, and pledged to reduce prices and restore economic stability.
“I’m fighting every day to make America affordable again,” Trump said.
Law and Order: Tougher Policing Measures
Trump emphasized the need for stronger support of law enforcement, calling for increased protections for police officers and more aggressive action to combat crime in U.S. cities.
“One rough hour of law enforcement could stop this crime wave,” Trump claimed, criticizing Democratic-led cities for what he described as weak crime policies.
Protests Disrupt Speech Inside and Outside Congress
The speech was met with vocal opposition. Democratic Representative Al Green interrupted the address, shouting, “You have no mandate,” before being escorted out.
Protests also erupted outside the Capitol and in New York City, with demonstrators supporting Ukraine, defending Medicaid, and calling for veterans’ rights.