President Donald Trump outlined an ambitious agenda in his first address to a joint session of Congress since returning to office, focusing on immigration, trade, energy policy and economic measures while announcing several major developments, including the capture of a terrorist linked to the 2021 Abbey Gate bombing in Afghanistan.
In a nearly two-hour speech Wednesday evening, Trump touted his administration's early actions, claiming, "We have accomplished more in 43 days than most administrations accomplish in four years or eight years."
The president announced the implementation of reciprocal tariffs beginning April 2, a policy he said would address trade imbalances with countries that charge higher tariffs on American goods. "Whatever they tariff us, other countries, we will tariff them," Trump said.
Trump also highlighted his administration's immigration enforcement actions, stating that illegal border crossings "last month were by far the lowest ever recorded." He recognized families of victims killed by undocumented immigrants, including the mother of Laken Riley, a nursing student murdered last year.
Middle East policy
On the Middle East, Trump said his administration is "bringing back our hostages from Gaza" and plans to build on the Abraham Accords, which he described as "one of the most groundbreaking peace agreements in generations."
"We're going to build on that foundation to create a more peaceful and prosperous future for the entire region," Trump said, adding that "a lot of things are happening in the Middle East" and describing it as "a rough neighborhood."
The president did not provide specific details about ongoing hostage negotiations or outline new initiatives for the region beyond referencing his administration's previous diplomatic achievements.
Foreign policy announcements
In a significant foreign policy announcement, Trump revealed the capture of "the top terrorist responsible" for the Abbey Gate bombing during the 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan, which killed 13 US service members. "He is right now on his way here to face the swift sword of American justice," Trump said, thanking Pakistan's government for assistance with the arrest.
On Ukraine, Trump read from what he said was a letter from President Volodymyr Zelensky indicating Ukraine's readiness for peace negotiations. "Ukraine is ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring lasting peace closer," Trump quoted from the letter.
The president also announced efforts to "reclaim the Panama Canal," stating the waterway "was built by Americans for Americans" and appointing Sen. Marco Rubio to lead this initiative.
Throughout the speech, Trump invited several guests to the gallery, including families of crime victims, a foster care advocate, and military service members, using their stories to underscore his policy priorities.
The speech was interrupted briefly by Rep. Al Green (D-Texas), who was removed from the chamber at the direction of Speaker Mike Johnson for disrupting proceedings.
