Trump's first day as president unfolded through waves of executive orders, starting with pardons for 1,500 Capitol rioters and withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement. By morning, he initiated WHO withdrawal and suspended foreign aid. The administration began dismissing officials, with four prominent removals generating attention.
European reactions crystallized by midday, with von der Leyen warning of "geostrategic competition" and Dutch Finance Minister Heinen threatening retaliation against potential US import tariffs. Meanwhile, a devastating fire at a Turkish ski resort claimed 66 lives, later rising to 77, with the hotel owner arrested.
Evening coverage shifted to Trump's immigration decrees, described as containing "biting formulations" aimed at ending America's status as an immigration nation. Instagram's temporary blocking of Biden-related searches sparked technical concerns, while the Netherlands suspended UNRWA funding.