The Weekly Primer is a ‘pop-up’ newsletter that highlights the latest developments from the Trump White House with a view into the deeper agenda underway.
What’s ahead on the Trump 2.5 Agenda?
Without clear resolution across nearly every foreign policy file that has been opened, notably Iran, the White House will remain rudderless.
As the president heads to China, he does so perhaps at the weakest point of his term, although there is still time to turn it around.
Coming up this week
Iran and US Continue to be at Odds | With Trump expressing anger once again on social media, the gap remains large between the two countries, as escalation appears inevitable before resolution.
China Summit Looms | The president still plans to travel mid-week to China to meet with his counterpart, alongside a bevy of his billionaire supporters in the technology sector.
Immigration Bill Becoming Albatross | The funding bill for ICE is quickly being seen as a placeholder for other items, such as expanded funding for the ballroom under construction.
Lebanon Talks to Resume | Another round of peace talks between Lebanon and Israel is due to take place in Washington this week.
Bessent Heads to Japan | The Treasury Secretary will travel to Tokyo to meet with the country’s leadership ahead of the China Summit.
You may have missed
Lula Concludes Washington Trip | The Brazilian president finally visited the White House, but, surprisingly, the two leaders were not available to the media afterward, raising the prospect of a tense meeting.
Russia and Ukraine Honor Truce | The two countries loosely maintained a ceasefire to mark the end of World War II, with the American president claiming credit.
Rubio Meets with Pope | The Secretary of State traveled to the Vatican to try to restart relations on a stronger footing.
Vance Hosts Qataris | The vice president met with Qatar’s prime minister to discuss a range of issues, such as Gaza, the Iran talks, and other files.
Wiles Tightens Protocols in Administration | The chief of staff has issued new rules for admin staff following a series of media leaks as well as the assassination attempt last month.
Readings & Viewings
Snapshots from around the media from the past week.
Institute of Politics | AOC Interview
NBC News | Spencer Pratt in LA Debate
DoW | The UFO Files
“In America’s three largest cities, led by the Democratic Party, the reality undermines the narrative. In New York, the mayor’s office has been immersed in turmoil. In Chicago, the mayor has an approval rating in the low teens. In Los Angeles, the mayor has faced consternation from residents after the wildfires.”
- p. 171 “The Way Forward” | Trump 2.5: A Primer (2025)