Washington, January 21, 2025 – The Europe Today: U.S. President Donald Trump, following his historic second inauguration, wasted no time in implementing his administration’s agenda by signing a series of executive orders on Monday. The orders, which were signed after the inaugural parade at Capital One Arena, signal a sharp departure from the policies of his predecessor, Joe Biden.
Rescinding Biden-Era Orders
Trump began by rescinding 78 executive orders issued during the Biden administration, including regulations addressing climate change, artificial intelligence oversight, and the promotion of electric vehicles.
Among the notable reversals:
- Paris Climate Agreement Withdrawal: Trump formally withdrew the U.S. from the global accord, citing it as an agreement that misaligned with U.S. values and steered taxpayer dollars to undeserving nations. “The United States’ successful track record of advancing both economic and environmental objectives should serve as a model for other countries,” Trump stated.
- Cuba’s Terrorism Designation: Trump reinstated Cuba’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism, reversing Biden’s removal of the classification.
- AI Risk Management: Trump nullified Biden’s directive aimed at reducing risks posed by artificial intelligence to consumers and national security.
- EV Sales Targets: He revoked a Biden-era goal to make 50% of new vehicle sales electric by 2030, signaling a shift in energy policy.
Policy Directives on Federal Workforce and Pardons
Trump signed an executive order mandating the immediate return of federal employees to full-time in-office work, effectively ending remote work arrangements.
“Heads of all departments and agencies in the executive branch shall take all necessary steps to terminate remote work arrangements and require employees to return to work in person,” the White House confirmed in a statement.
At the White House later in the day, Trump issued pardons for individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riot, fulfilling a campaign promise to his supporters. Calling them “hostages,” Trump said the pardons addressed what he considered unjust persecution of those who sought to challenge his 2020 election defeat.
Foreign Policy Adjustments
In another significant move, Trump lifted sanctions imposed on certain far-right Israeli settler groups accused of violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. He also rescinded Executive Order 14115, which authorized sanctions on individuals undermining peace and security in the region.
A New Direction
Speaking to supporters during the inaugural parade, Trump described the nearly 80 actions as necessary to undo “destructive and radical” policies of the Biden administration.
With this sweeping set of orders, Trump signaled his commitment to restoring his vision of American leadership both domestically and internationally, setting the stage for what promises to be a transformative second term.
