Donald Trump pardoned or commuted the prison sentences of all of the 1,500-plus people charged with crimes in the January 6 US Capitol riot after being inaugurated as the 47th US President.
Trump’s first actions pave the way for the release from prison of dozens of people found guilty of violent attacks on police, as well as leaders of far-right extremist groups convicted of plotting to stop the peaceful transfer of power after he lost the 2020 election to former president Joe Biden.
Ripping up many of the policies of predecessor Joe Biden, Trump also signed a raft of executive orders which include withdrawing the US from the Paris climate agreement, declaring illegal immigration at the US-Mexico border a national emergency and a plan to pull out of the World Health Organisation.
Trump earlier vowed a “Golden Age” and a “revolution of common sense” for America in his inaugural address.
A day of high drama and political theatre was being rounded off with President Trump and Vice-President JD Vance attending three inaugural balls.
You can follow live updates here.
Key developments:
- Donald Trump returns to White House as 47th US President
- Trump administration 'plans sweeping pardons' of January 6 rioters
- US President exits key climate change deal and vows mass deportations
- Joe Biden issues pre-emptive pardons to family in last act in office
- Prime Minister congratulates Trump and says special relationship 'will continue to flourish for years to come'
Trump delays TikTok ban
08:02 , Jacob PhillipsDonald Trump signed an order to delay a ban for 75 days of the popular short-video app TikTok which was temporarily shut on January 19.
Screens on the app had gone blank in the US on the weekend as TikTok stopped working for users.
The order directs the attorney general to not enforce the law "to permit my administration an opportunity to determine the appropriate course of action with respect to TikTok."
Trump immediately reverses Joe Biden's decisions
07:45 , Jacob PhillipsAt a rally at a sports arena, Donald Trump revoked 78 executive actions of the previous administration.
"I'll revoke nearly 80 destructive and radical executive actions of the previous administration," Trump said.
Trump also said he would sign an order directing every agency to preserve all records about "political persecutions" under the Biden administration.
The rescission applied to executive orders spanning from former President Joe Biden's first day in office in 2021 to as recently as last week and covered topics from Covid relief to the promotion of clean energy industries.
Elon Musk accused of giving 'Nazi-style' salute
07:30 , Jacob PhillipsBillionaire Elon Musk has been accused of giving a “Nazi-style” salute as he delivered a speech during celebrations for Donald Trump’s inauguration.
The world’s richest man made a strange hand gesture and drew online comparisons to a fascist salute on Monday, although he quickly dismissed criticism.
"Frankly, they need better dirty tricks. The 'everyone is Hitler' attack is sooo tired," Musk said on his social media platform X late on Monday.
The gesture immediately surprised broadcasters commentating on the event.
Standing ovation for Elon Musk. By far the biggest reception of the day,” CNN anchor Erin Burnett explained. “You saw him come out with that odd-looking salute.”
Meanwhile, her fellow anchor Kasie Hunt added that the gesture “was evocative of things that we have seen through history” and “not something you typically see at American rallies”.
You can read more about the incident here.
Recap - Trump calls national emergency on US southern border
07:08 , Jacob PhillipsIn one of his first moves in his return to the White House, Donald Trump declared a national emergency on the US border with Mexico.
Trump signed an order straight away saying America’s “southern border is overrun by cartels, criminal gangs, known terrorists, human traffickers”.
It added that innocent Americans had been harmed “at the hands of illegal aliens”.
Trump also signed an executive order on Monday saying the United States would designate drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations in a move that could push a militarised agenda for the border and Latin America.
The order highlighted Mexican drug cartels and other Latin American criminal groups like Venezuela gang Tren de Aragua and Salvadoran gang Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13), which it said: "threaten the safety of the American people, the security of the United States, and the stability of the international order in the Western Hemisphere."
Trump's presidency will be a 'Golden Age for people that break the law'
06:55 , Jacob PhillipsDemocrats have slammed the move to extend the pardons to violent rioters, many of whose crimes were captured on camera and broadcast on live TV.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called it "an outrageous insult to our justice system and the heroes who suffered physical scars and emotional trauma as they protected the Capitol, the Congress and the Constitution."
"Donald Trump is ushering in a Golden Age for people that break the law and attempt to overthrow the government," Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said in an emailed statement.
Former Metropolitan Police Officer Michael Fanone, who lost consciousness and suffered a heart attack after a rioter shocked him with a stun gun, appeared taken aback to learn from a reporter that those who assaulted police officers are among the pardon recipients.
"This is what the American people voted for," he said. "How do you react to something like that?"
Mr Fanone said he has spent the past four years worried about his safety and the well-being of his family.
Pardoning his assailants only compounds his fears, he said."I think they're cowards,"
he said. "Their strength was in their numbers and the mob mentality. And as individuals, they are who they are."
Good morning
06:43 , Michael HowieThe Standard is resuming its live coverage of Donald Trump’s dramatic return to the White House.
Trump has wasted no time putting his stamp on his second term as US President, signing dozens of executive orders that rip up the policies of his predecessor Joe Biden.
Live coverage paused
00:00 , Josh SalisburyWe are now pausing our live coverage of Donald Trump’s return to the White House.
Please check back in tomorrow morning for all the latest updates as Trump starts his four-year term as the 47th US President.
For an overview of all the day’s developments as Trump was sworn in and addressed supporters, please visit here.
Trump finishes rally by signing executive orders on stage
Monday 20 January 2025 23:57 , Josh SalisburyDonald Trump has ended his rally by signing a series of executive orders on stage, with more planned at the Oval Office later on Monday in Washington time.
Trump: I will order government to investigate persecution under Biden
Monday 20 January 2025 23:47 , Josh SalisburyDonald Trump tells the around 20,000 assembled supporters that he will sign an order ordering federal officials to preserve records on what he calls “political persecution” under the Biden administration.
The order will require every federal agency to preserve records on what he calls the weaponisation of the justice system.
Trump: I'll revoke 80 previous Biden orders
Monday 20 January 2025 23:33Continuing to speak to supporters, Trump says he will revoke 80 orders put in place under former US President Joe Biden.
To cheers, he says he will nullify nearly 80 orders issued by Mr Biden, and will also issue a hiring freeze for the federal government.
Trump confirms pardons for January 6 rioters
Monday 20 January 2025 23:25 , Josh SalisburyDonald Trump has begun speaking at a rally for supporters, where he has pledged pardons for some of those involved in the January 6 2021 riots.
“Tonight I’m going to be signing on the J6 [January 6] hostages pardons to get them out” he says. “As soon as I leave I’m going to be going to the Oval Office where we’re going to be signing pardons for a lot of people”.
Trump to speak in few minutes at rally
Monday 20 January 2025 22:50 , Josh SalisburyDonald Trump has arrived at the arena where his supporters are waiting for him to speak.
He mingled with the crowds in a marked contrast from the Republican National Convention, when Secret Service deployed heightened security following his near-assassination.
The indoor parade is taking place at the Capital Arena building.
Trump took to the red, white and blue stage, placing a binder on a podium to raucous cheers from the crowd.
Trump then stood and smiled, pumping his fist as sustained cheers continued.
Trump 'to sign executive orders' before supporters at rally
Monday 20 January 2025 22:01 , Josh SalisburyDonald Trump could sign executive orders on stage at the Capital One Arena as he addresses supporters.
Trump was already expected to be addressing supporters at the rally, but appears to be running late.
Pictures from the venue show a wooden desk has been set up on stage - with reports suggesting Trump could use it as a prop to sign executive orders.
Trump to lift Biden sanctions on Israeli settlers
Monday 20 January 2025 21:20 , Josh SalisburyUS President Donald Trump is expected to lift the Biden administration's freeze on the supply of 2,000-pound bombs to Israel in his first days in office.
Israeli outlet Walla News reported the plan on Monday, citing an interview with the Israeli envoy to Washington.
Trump is also expected to reverse sanctions the Biden administration imposed against Israeli settlers accused of violent attacks against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, Israeli ambassador to the US Mike Herzog said.
US government website providing abortion information 'disabled' after Trump inauguration
Monday 20 January 2025 20:53 , Josh SalisburyA US government health website that offers birth control and emergency abortion guidance appears to have been disabled after Trump took office.
The website, reproductiverights.gov, was launched by the Biden administration in response to the US Supreme Court's decision to overturn national abortion rights. It detailed ways in which women could obtain birth control, abortion pills and emergency abortions.
But it since appears to have been disabled.
More than 100 pregnant women, including some who needed pregnancy terminations, were turned away from emergency rooms since the Supreme Court's 2022 decision, according to a tally kept by the Associated Press.
Trump to give speech at rally of supporters
Monday 20 January 2025 20:47Donald Trump is preparing to arrive at a rally in Washington at the Capitol One Arena.
Trump is due to arrive imminently at the rally in DC where he is expected to give an unscripted address to supporters.
Musk mocked over arm gesture during Trump speech
Monday 20 January 2025 20:28Critics have mocked Elon Musk over an arm gesture during his speech to Trump supporters at a rally in Washington.
Mr Musk pounded his chest and raised his right arm in the air as he thanked Donald Trump’s supporters electing Trump as the 47th US president.
Among those questioning the gesture was Labour MP Rosena Allin-Khan, who reposted the clip on social media with the caption: “What fresh hell is this?”
Pictured: Elon Musk addresses Trump supporters in DC
Monday 20 January 2025 20:12 , Josh SalisburyElon Musk has told Trump supporters in Washington DC that Trump’s victory “assured” the future of civilisation.
He told the rally: “Some elections are, you know, important. Some are not but this one really mattered.”
“This is what victory feels like. This one really mattered. It’s thanks to you that the future of civilisation is assured.”
Panama Canal 'will remain Panamanian', country's government insists
Monday 20 January 2025 20:10 , Josh SalisburyPanama has vowed the world-famous canal - which Donald Trump vowed in his inaugural address to “return” to the US will remain in its control.
Panama’s president, José Raúl Mulino, said the Panama Canal “is and will continue to be Panamanian”.
Mr Mulino took aim in a statement at Trump’s claims that Panama was using the vital crossing to unfairly charge American ships.
“I must fully reject the statements made by president Donald Trump regarding Panama and its Canal in his inaugural address,” he said in a statement on X.
“I reiterate what I said in my message to the nation on 22 December: the Canal is and will remain Panamanian.”
— José Raúl Mulino (@JoseRaulMulino) January 20, 2025
Pentagon removes portrait of former top US general
Monday 20 January 2025 20:02 , Daniel KeaneThe Pentagon has removed the portrait of Mark Milley, the retired Army general and former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, according to two Reuters witnesses.
The Pentagon did not immediately respond to a question about why the portrait was removed days after its unveiling.
Mr Trump had deep resentment toward Milley, and once called him "slow moving and thinking" and a "moron."
Hours earlier, former President Joe Biden had issued a preemptive pardon to Milley and others Trump had targeted for potential retaliation.
Labour: Trump must be respected by UK
Monday 20 January 2025 19:38 , Daniel KeaneDonald Trump has to be respected, the Labour Government has said as it dismissed the need for extra security precautions in dealing with him as "a convicted felon".
Frontbencher Lord Leong pointed to the Republican tycoon's "enormous victory" in the November election and said the close, long-standing ties between the two nations meant Britain had to work with the new US administration "come what may".
He was responding to comments made by Green Party peer Baroness Jones of Moulsecoomb, who made reference to Mr Trump being the first person convicted of a crime to serve as US president.
Speaking at Westminster as Mr Trump returned to the White House, Lady Jones asked: "Are the British Government going to take any extra security precautions when they are dealing with the president of the United States, who is a convicted felon?"
In reply, Lord Leong, who as a Lords whip holds the same constitutional position as a minister, said: "I thank her for the question, but I do not agree with her.
"We have to respect President Trump. He won an enormous victory and he has a massive mandate from the American people. That is democracy.
"We will work with President Trump and his administration."
Trump to pull out of Paris Climate Agreement
Monday 20 January 2025 19:23 , Daniel KeanePresident Donald Trump says he will again withdraw the United States, a top carbon polluting nation, from the landmark Paris climate agreement - dealing a blow to worldwide efforts to combat global warming.
The White House announcement, which came as Mr Trump was sworn in on Monday for a second term, echoed Mr Trump's actions in 2017, when he announced that the US would abandon the global Paris accord.
The pact is aimed at limiting long-term global warming to 1.5C above pre-industrial levels or, failing that, keeping temperatures at least well below 2C above pre-industrial levels.
Trump 'to pardon January 6 rioters'
Monday 20 January 2025 19:15 , Daniel KeaneUS President Donald Trump is preparing to issue sweeping pardons for defendants charged in the January 6, 2021 attack on the US Capitol, ABC News reported on Monday, citing unidentified sources.
ABC News added that Trump also planned to extend full pardons to his supporters who were not charged with engaging in violence on the day.
Elon Musk's DOGE government agency immediately sued
Monday 20 January 2025 18:54 , Josh SalisburyA new US government agency set up by Donald Trump - led by Elon Musk - has been immediately sued.
The group -- dubbed the Department of Government Efficiency, or "DOGE" -- is being co-run by Tesla CEO Elon Musk and failed presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy.
It aims to eliminate entire federal agencies and cutting three quarters of federal government jobs.
Public interest law firm National Security Counselors sued within minutes of the announcement, alleging that the group was breaking a 1972 law that governed federal advisory committees.
Trump criticises Biden over pardons as he addresses supporters
Monday 20 January 2025 18:44Donald Trump has criticised Joe Biden over his use of the presidential pardon as the new US President addresses supporters.
In a lengthy, and somewhat rambling address, the supporters in Washington, Trump criticises Mr Biden’s use of pre-emptive pardons for Trump’s political opponents.
“I was going to talk about the things that Joe did today with the pardons of people that were very, very guilty of very bad crimes, like the unselect committee of political folks,” Trump said, a reference to the bipartisan House committee that investigated the January 6 insurrection.
Mr Biden pre-emptively pardoned several of those involved in the committee, over fears they could be targeted by Trump in the White House.
Badenoch congratulates Trump on victory
Monday 20 January 2025 18:22 , Josh SalisburyKemi Badenoch has congratulated Donald Trump on his inauguration and said she looked forward to "seeing our nations' bonds strengthened as our two countries work together for a better future."
In a post on social media site X, the British Tory leader said: "Congratulations (Donald Trump) on your historic inauguration as the 47th President of the United States.
"Your support for the UK is deeply valued.
"I look forward to seeing our nations' bonds strengthened as our two countries work together for a better future."
Biden leaves US Capitol - bringing end to public life
Monday 20 January 2025 18:20 , Josh SalisburyOutgoing US president Joe Biden has flown out of the Capitol, bringing an end to more than five decades in US public life.
The 82-year-old was pictured being whisked away from the Capitol in a helicopter after the end of Trump’s inauguration as the 47th US President.
Protest outside Downing Street as Trump returns as US president
Monday 20 January 2025 18:08 , Josh SalisburyA protest is taking place outside Downing Street against Donald Trump returning to the White House.
The demonstration was organised by a number of groups including Stand Up to Racism and Friends of the Earth.
Trump administration to withdraw from historic Paris climate change agreement
Monday 20 January 2025 18:00 , Josh SalisburyPresident Donald Trump will once again withdraw the United States from the Paris climate deal, the White House has said.
The decision would place the United States alongside Iran, Libya and Yemen as the only countries in the world outside the 2015 pact, in which governments agreed to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels to avoid the worst impacts of climate change.
The announcement, in a document from the White House, reflects Trump’s scepticism about global warming, which he has called a hoax.
In his speech he also pledged to “drill, baby, drill” for oil and gas.
Trump also withdrew the US from the Paris deal during his first term in office, though the process took years and was immediately reversed by the Biden presidency in 2021.
Underwood forced to sing a cappella
Monday 20 January 2025 17:56 , Josh SalisburyCountry music star Carrie Underwood was forced to sing a cappella at the end of the inaugural address after her backing track appeared to fail.
She sung "America the Beautiful" with help from the audience.
She had earlier faced criticism from some fans for performing at the event.
"I love our country and am honoured to have been asked to sing at the Inauguration and to be a small part of this historic event," Ms Underwood said in a statement shortly after the news broke.
"I am humbled to answer the call at a time when we must all come together in the spirit of unity and looking to the future."
Foreign Secretary congratulates Trump on return
Monday 20 January 2025 17:53David Lammy has congratulated Donald Trump on his "historic return" to the White House.
The Foreign Secretary said in a post on X: "There are no greater allies than the UK and US.
"Our close economic, security, intelligence and cultural ties deliver growth and prosperity on both sides of the Atlantic.
"I look forward to further strengthening the special relationship over the years to come."
Mr Lammy has previously strongly criticised Trump while in opposition, calling him a “tyrant in a toupee,” a “serial liar and a cheat,” and “deluded, dishonest, xenophobic, narcissistic”.
'Our golden age has begun': Trump finishes inaugural address
Monday 20 January 2025 17:45 , Josh SalisburyDonald Trump has now finished his inaugural address as the 47th US president.
He finished his speech by telling those assembled: "I stand before you as proof that you should never believe something is impossible to do. In America, doing the impossible is what we do best.”
He vows that the next four years will be America’s “Golden Age” - saying it has “only just begun”.
Attendees are now listening to a performance by country singer Carrie Underwood.
Trump: My government will only recognise two genders
Monday 20 January 2025 17:41 , Josh SalisburyThe new president of the United States announced that his government will only recognise male and female genders.
"As of today, it will henceforth be the official policy of the United States government that there are only two genders, male and female," he said to a cheer among supporters in the Capitol.
He said he will enact this change almost immediately, and says his government will not try "to socially engineer race and gender into every aspect of public and private life".
US on verge 'of four greatest years in its history' - Trump
Monday 20 January 2025 17:40 , Josh SalisburyTrump has vowed the United States stands on the edge of the “four greatest years” in the country’s history.
He tells those assembled in the US Capitol building: “After all we have been through together, we stand on the verge of the four greatest years in American history.
“With your help we will restore the American promise and we will rebuild the nation we love and we love it so much”.
Trump: We will take back Panama Canal and put astronauts on Mars
Monday 20 January 2025 17:37 , Josh SalisburyContinuing his vows with a slew of executive orders, Trump vows:
- To put astronauts on Mars
- To “take back” the Panama Canal
- Ending what he has called an "electric vehicle mandate."
Trump announces slew of executive orders
Monday 20 January 2025 17:32 , Josh SalisburyAmong other policies Trump has just announced are:
- Will commit to “drill, baby, drill” for oil and gas
- He says he will direct all members of cabinet to do what is in their power to "defeat" inflation and "rapidly bring down costs".
- Will state Government policy is that there are only two genders
- Will change name of Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America
Trump confirms plan to declare national emergency on southern border
Monday 20 January 2025 17:29Trump has confirmed a plan to declare a national emergency at the country’s southern border with Mexico.
He says he will “immediately halt” all illegal entries to the States, and vows mass deportations of millions of “criminal aliens”.
Trump hails inauguration day as 'liberation day' for America
Monday 20 January 2025 17:24 , Josh SalisburyTrump has hailed his second inauguration as a “liberation day” for Americans.
“We will be working to meet every crisis with dignity, and power and strength. We will move with purpose and speed to bring back hope, prosperity, safety and peace for our citizens of every race, religion, colour and creed,” he says.
“For American citizens, January 20 2025 is liberation day”.
Trump criticises Biden policies
Monday 20 January 2025 17:20Donald Trump has hit out at the Biden administration’s policies, saying it had failed to tackle the migrant crisis and secure America’s border.
He vows to end what he calls “America’s decline”.
He claims the outgoing Democratic administration provided sanctuary and protection for "dangerous criminals" who have illegally entered our country.”
"We now have a government that cannot manage even a simple crisis at home," he says.
Trump takes aim at 'corrupt' establishment
Monday 20 January 2025 17:16 , Josh SalisburyTrump continues his speech by vowing to restore American sovereignty - criticising what he calls the “corrupt” establishment.
He takes aim at what he calls the “the vicious, violent and unfair weaponisation” of the US justice system against him, saying it “will end”.
He says his administration’s top aim is to make a country that is free and rich.
“I return to the presidency confident and optimistic that we are at the start of a new era of national success”, he says.
Trump: Golden age of America begins now
Monday 20 January 2025 17:13 , Josh SalisburyDonald Trump has begun addressing the nation for the first time as the 47th president, vowing: “The Golden Age of America begins now”.
“We will be the envy of every nation and we will not allow ourselves to be taken advantage of any longer,” he says. “During every single day of the Trump administration I will very simply put America first”.
Donald Trump sworn into office
Monday 20 January 2025 17:03 , Josh SalisburyIt is official - Donald Trump has just been sworn in as the 47th president of the United States.
The announcement was greeted with cheers in the US Capitol building.
It is the first time since the 1890s that a president who was defeated in an election has returned victorious to take the oath for a second time.
It also marks a remarkable turnaround in political fortunes for Trump, the first-ever convicted criminal to serve as president.
Vice President JD Vance being sworn in
Monday 20 January 2025 17:01The new Vice President, JD Vance, is now being sworn into office.
Flanked by Trump, Mr Vance has pledged to defend the Constitution of the United States, the traditional vow for holders of the office.
Pictured: Trump kisses wife Melania ahead of oath swearing
Monday 20 January 2025 16:50 , Josh Salisbury
Biden preemptively pardons family members in last act as president
Monday 20 January 2025 16:49Joe Biden has just issued a preemptive pardon for members of his family in his last act as president.
"My family has been subjected to unrelenting attacks and threats, motivated solely by a desire to hurt me - the worst kind of partisan politics. Unfortunately, I have no reason to believe these attacks will end," he said in a statement.
"That is why I am exercising my power under the Constitution to pardon James B. Biden, Sara Jones Biden, Valerie Biden Owens, John T. Owens, and Francis W. Biden."
He last month pardoned his son Hunter Biden on federal felony gun and tax convictions.
Trump arrives ahead of oath as ceremony begins
Monday 20 January 2025 16:45Donald Trump has just walked out into the ceremony ahead of taking his oath in the next few minutes.
He was greeted by cheers from some of those attending the ceremony in the US Capitol building.
The ceremony has now begun.
Minutes away from Trump taking oath as VP prepares to swear oath
Monday 20 January 2025 16:41We are now just minutes away from Donald Trump taking the oath of office as the 47th president.
First, his Vice President, JD Vance, will take to the stage in the Capitol rotunda to swear his oath of office.
King Charles sends message of congratulations to Trump
Monday 20 January 2025 16:30The King has sent a personal message of congratulations to President Donald Trump on his inauguration, Buckingham Palace said.
The message reflected on the enduring special relationship between the UK and US, the palace said in a statement.
It has been reported that a possible incoming state visit by Mr Trump to the UK could take place, and a visit by Charles to the US, but no plans are currently in the royal diary.
George Bush winks as former presidents arrive
Monday 20 January 2025 16:26 , Josh SalisburyGeorge Bush was pictured flashing a wink as former US presidents arrived to the inauguration ceremony.
Also pictured arriving were Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State and one-time presidential nominee, Hilary Clinton.
Barack Obama was also among those arriving - but his wife, Michelle Obama, will not be present at the ceremony.
Zuckerberg and Bezos among tech names attending
Monday 20 January 2025 16:17 , Josh SalisburyAlongside X owner Elon Musk, Meta owner Mark Zuckerberg is also among the big names in tech attending president Trump’s inauguration.
Jeff Bezos, the billionaire founder of Amazon, is also attending.
As a reminder, Trump will be officially inaugurated as the 47th US president in less than an hour at around 5pm UK time (12pm ET).
Musk and Argentinian president among guests of honour
Monday 20 January 2025 16:12 , Josh Salisbury
Pictured: Trump arrives at Capitol ahead of official swearing in
Monday 20 January 2025 16:01 , Josh Salisbury
Where will Trump inauguration be held?
Monday 20 January 2025 15:39Donald Trump will be sworn in as the 47th president of the United States on Monday at an inauguration ceremony that has been scaled back due to a forecast of severe cold weather in the US capital.
Trump will take the oath of office and deliver his inaugural address inside the US Capitol, instead of outdoors in front of the building, as initially planned.
The traditional inaugural parade, which was set to include marching bands and other groups proceeding down Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House, has been moved to the Capital One Arena, a professional basketball and hockey venue in Washington.
The arena is home to the Washington Wizards NBA basketball team and the National Hockey League's Washington Capitals team. Built in 1997, it is located near the city's small Chinatown area, roughly equidistant from the Capitol building and the White House.
Putin congratulates Trump ahead of inauguration
Monday 20 January 2025 15:20 , Josh SalisburyRussian dictator Vladimir Putin has congratulated Trump ahead of his swearing-in as US president at 5pm GMT.
Speaking during a video call with members of Russia's Security Council, Putin said that "we hear the statements from Trump and members of his team about their desire to restore direct contacts with Russia, which were halted through no fault of ours by the outgoing administration."
"We also hear his statements about the need to do everything to prevent World War III," he added.
"We certainly welcome such an approach and congratulate the U.S. president-elect on taking office."
Putin said Moscow is open to discussing a prospective peace settlement in Ukraine, but warned he would sign any deal unless it accorded with what he called Russia’s national interest.
Video: Trump meets Biden at White House for tea
Monday 20 January 2025 15:15 , Josh SalisburyShortly before 10 am ET (3pm GMT), Trump and incoming first lady Melania Trump arrived at the White House, where Biden and first lady Jill Biden greeted them with handshakes.
"Welcome home," Mr Biden said.
Trump to declare national emergency at the border
Monday 20 January 2025 14:52 , Jacob PhillipsDonald Trump plans to take a flurry of executive actions aimed at cracking down on legal and illegal immigration and ramping up deportations after he enters the White House on Monday, an incoming Trump administration official said.
Trump intends to declare illegal immigration at the US-Mexico border a national emergency to support the construction of a border wall and send additional troops to the border, the incoming official said, requesting anonymity as a condition of a call with reporters.
Trump will issue a sweeping proclamation that aims to block access to all asylum at the Mexico border, the official said.
Trump won back the White House after campaigning to crack down on illegal immigration and deport record numbers of immigrants in the U.S. illegally. He intends to take 10 executive orders and actions on Monday aimed at stepping up border security and increasing deportations, the official said.
Joe Biden and Kamala Harris arrive at the White House
Monday 20 January 2025 14:46President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden have greeted the vice president Kamala Harris and her husband Doug Emhoff at the Pennsylvania Avenue side of the White House.
Donald Trump's swearing-in ceremony, moved indoors due to intense cold, will begin at 5pm GMT. But festivities began when the incoming president arrives for service at St. John's Episcopal Church.
Meanwhile inside the White House, cupboards and drawers have been emptied, the walls are bare and all personal items have been boxed up, including in press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre's office.
Most of the press office staff wrapped up their government service last week. A couple of press secretaries and assistants remain to see Biden through tea with Trump, the ride to the Capitol for the inauguration and Biden's departure ceremony afterward.
What is Melania Trump wearing for the inauguration ceremony 2025
Monday 20 January 2025 14:38 , Jacob PhillipsPutting aside any takes on the startling MAGA comeback across the pond, there can be no denying that the returning FLOTUS, Melania Trump, has always been ripe for fashion analysis — be it for better or worse, writes The Standard’s Junior Fashion Editor Joe Bromley.
No one knows what she is thinking was behind her whacking-great shades and drawn on, icy smile, but all have borne witness to a woman who knows how to get dressed. This is a former model and high society darling who was once the toast of the Met Gala and New York Fashion Week’s front row, after all.
You can read more about what Melania Trump is wearing at the inauguration and some of her most defining fashion moments here.
Celebrities line church service ahead of inauguration
Monday 20 January 2025 14:30 , Jacob PhillipsPresident-elect Donald Trump entered St. John's Episcopal Church with his wife, Melania, for a service ahead of the inauguration, taking part in a long presidential tradition.
The Trumps spent the night at Blair House and will head to the White House for a coffee and tea with President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden following the service.
Celebrities lined the church as the service took place with Rupert Murdoch, Jeff Bezos and President of FIFA Gianni Infantino spotted there.
Boris Johnson spotted ahead of Trump's inauguration
Monday 20 January 2025 14:19 , Jacob PhillipsBoris Johnson has been spotted ahead of Donald Trump’s inauguration at a service at St John’s Church.
Trump once dubbed Mr Johnson “Britain Trump” as he welcomed a landslide victory in the Tory leadership race in 2019.
Trump’s daughter Ivanka was also spotted arriving for the service as well as his son Eric Trump as well as other members of the family.
Trump arrives with Melania for prayer service ahead of inauguration
Monday 20 January 2025 13:55Donald Trump has arrived at a service at St. John's Church with his family as the inauguration events get underway.
Ivanka Trump among guests to arrive ahead of church service
Monday 20 January 2025 13:25Today's inauguration events are beginning with a service at St. John's Church, which lies a short walk away from the White House.
It's a tradition for the occasion and many former presidents have attended the service.
Among those to have already arrive at the church for the service are Trump’s daughter Ivanka and son Eric.
Rudy Giuliani, Trump’s former personal lawyer is also there.
Joe Biden issues pre-emptive pardons to shield possible Trump targets
Monday 20 January 2025 12:59 , Matt WattsOutgoing US President Joe Biden has issued pre-emptive pardons on Monday for people Republican successor Donald Trump could target for retaliation, including former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley and former White House chief medical advisor Anthony Fauci.
The pardons shield them from the possibility of prosecution.
The pardons also cover all lawmakers who served on the congressional select committee that investigated the January 6, 2021 storming of the Capitol by Trump supporters, and police officers who testified before it.
Trump has repeatedly called for the prosecution of his perceived enemies since winning the White House in November.
Biden praised public servants as the "lifeblood of our democracy." Without mentioning Trump, he expressed alarm that some of them were subjected to threats and intimidation for doing their job.
"These public servants have served our nation with honor and distinction and do not deserve to be the targets of unjustified and politically motivated prosecutions," Biden said in a statement.
Trump in December backed a call for the FBI to investigate fellow Republican Liz Cheney over her role in leading Congress's probe of the January 6 storming of the Capitol.
Fauci often clashed with Trump during the Covid-19 pandemic and his supporters have continued to attack the former senior health official.
Milley was quoted in the book "War" by Bob Woodward, which was published last month, calling Trump "fascist to the core" and Trump's allies have targeted him for perceived disloyalty to the former president.
Reuters reported in November that the Trump transition team was drawing up a listof military officers seen as connected to Milley to be fired.
First Trump supporters pictured ahead of inauguration
Monday 20 January 2025 12:23 , Jacob PhillipsThe first Trump supporters have been pictured ahead of Donald Trump’s inauguration.
The sun is just rising in Washington but supporters wearing “Make America Great Again” caps and hoodies have been seen in the American capital.
The inauguration is expected to begin at around 5pm GMT.
In Pictures: President-elect Donald Trump’s previous UK visits
Monday 20 January 2025 12:15 , Jacob PhillipsDonald Trump will become the 47th US president later today.
Sir Keir Starmer has said the pair will seek to consolidate and strengthen US-UK relations.
Mr Trump has been a regular visitor to the UK, and enjoyed a state visit in 2019, attending a banquet at Buckingham Palace hosted by the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Mr Trump’s visit to the UK was greeted by significant protests.
You can see more of the pictures from Trump’s time in the UK here.
Former Prime Minister Liz Truss in Washington for inauguration
Monday 20 January 2025 10:50 , Jacob PhillipsFormer Prime Minister Liz Truss has been spotted in Washington ahead of Donald Trump’s inauguration.
Ms Truss, Britain’s shortest-serving Prime Minister, was seen attending an Inauguration Eve event hosted by Uber and X on Sunday.
The politician has previously said that Donald Trump’s return to the White House “can’t come soon enough”.
Former Home Secretaries Suella Braverman and Priti Patel in US for inauguration
Monday 20 January 2025 10:30 , Jacob PhillipsFormer Home Secretaries Suella Braverman and Priti Patel are both in the US for Donald Trump’s inauguration.
In a post on Instagram Ms Braverman said it was an honour to be in Washington for the inauguration “to thank the American people for choosing Donald Trump” and the “end of this woke nonsense”.
Meanwhile, actor-turned-aspiring politician Laurence Fox was spotted supporting Trump alongside American actor Dean Cain, who played Clark Kent and Superman during the 1990s.
Mother of missing journalist Austin Tice says Trump team offered help in search
Monday 20 January 2025 10:10 , Jacob PhillipsThe mother of American journalist Austin Tice made her first visit to Syria in almost a decade Monday and said that the administration of President-elect Donald Trump had offered support to help find her son, who disappeared in 2012.
Debra Tice made the remarks at a news conference in Damascus in her first visit to the country since insurgents toppled President Bashar Assad last month.
She did not present any new findings in the ongoing search. Austin Tice disappeared near the Syrian capital in 2012, and has not been heard from since other than a video released weeks later that showed him blindfolded and held by armed men.
Tens of thousands are believed to have gone missing in Syria since 2011, when countrywide protests against Assad spiralled into a devastating civil war.
Outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden told reporters at the White House in December that he believes Washington can bring Tice back, while admitting that "we have no direct evidence" of his well-being.
"I have great hope that the Trump administration will sincerely engage in diligent work to bring Austin home." Tice said.
"His people have already reached out to me. I haven't experienced that for the last four years."
Donald Trump wants to 'change the game' in Middle East, says David Lammy
Monday 20 January 2025 09:41 , Jacob PhillipsDonald Trump wants to “change the game” in the Middle East by pushing for a normalisation of relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia, says David Lammy.
The Foreign Secretary stressed that the incoming US president is not a “warmonger” and believes he will be “fixed and focused” on encouraging such an agreement.
He also emphasised that for the ceasefire in Gaza to be turned into a longer term peace deal Israel needed to be guaranteed its security and the Palestinian people had to be given “hope, politics and opportunity” as part of a two-state solution.
You can read more about what Mr Lammy said about the President-Elect here.
Prime Minister will visit US for talks with Trump within weeks
Monday 20 January 2025 09:05 , Jacob PhillipsSir Keir Starmer will visit Washington for talks with Donald Trump within weeks, Foreign Secretary David Lammy has said.
The Prime Minister had earlier said that the UK’s special relationship with the US will reach the “next level” under Trump.
Mr Lammy said: “I think that when you look at past prime ministers, it’s taken between a week or up to a month to come to Washington.
“The importance is the strength of the relationship and the serious discussions that we have.
“In the end, we have war in Europe, we have a ceasefire in the Middle East, but it’s incredibly fragile, and there are important malign actors like Iran that we’ve got to discuss with the United States and, of course, our growing trade relations with the United States.
“So, lots to discuss, and I’m very confident that Keir Starmer will be discussing this with Donald Trump within the next few weeks.”
Trump's plans for mass deportation of immigrants 'a disgrace' says Pope
Monday 20 January 2025 08:59 , Jacob PhillipsPope Francis has weighed in on Donald Trump's plans to impose mass deportations of immigrants, warning that the policy would be a "disgrace".
History's first Latin American pope was asked about the Trump administration's pledges of deportations during an appearance Sunday night on a popular Italian talk show, Che Tempo Che Fa.
"If true, this will be a disgrace, because it makes the poor wretches who have nothing pay the bill" for the problem, Francis said.
"This won't do. This is not the way to solve things. That's not how things are resolved."
Trump, who is being sworn in on Monday, made mass deportations a signature issue of his campaign and has promised a raft of first-day orders to remake immigration policy.
The comments come nearly a decade after Pope Francis labelled Trump "not Christian" for wanting to build a wall along the US-Mexican border.
TikTok restores US service after Donald Trump says ‘we have to save it’
Monday 20 January 2025 08:37 , Jacob PhillipsTikTok began restoring its services on Sunday after President-elect Donald Trump said he would revive the app's access in the US when he returns to power on Monday.
"Frankly, we have no choice. We have to save it," Trump said at a rally on Sunday ahead of his inauguration, adding that the US will seek a joint venture to restore the short-video sharing app used by 170 million Americans.
In a message to users hours before the rally, TikTok said: "As a result of President Trump's efforts, TikTok is back in the US."
TikTok issued an earlier statement after US users reported being able to access the Chinese-owned service's website while the far more widely used TikTok app itself began coming back online for some users with just a few basic services. Late on Sunday, the app was unavailable for download on US app stores.
You can read the full story here.
Donald Trump dances with The Village People at pre-inauguration 'victory lap' rally
Monday 20 January 2025 07:34 , Jacob PhillipsDonald Trump has been celebrating ahead of his return to the White House with one final victory rally in Washington.
The 45th and soon-to-be 47th President of the US told supporters there’s no need to feel down as he wrapped up his final rally by dancing on stage with The Village People.
He was seen pumping his fists and shaking his hips alongside the US disco group’s YMCA, the anthem that closed out nearly all of Trump's campaign rallies.
How to watch Trump's inauguration in the UK
Monday 20 January 2025 07:22 , Jacob PhillipsThousands are expected to tune into Donald Trump’s inauguration across the globe, with the event taking place at 5pm GMT.
Throughout the day, the British media will be broadcasting events from Washington DC – with the Standard already pushing updates in a live blog.
From 3.30pm, Clive Myrie and Sophie Raworth pick up on BBC One and iPlayer as the main inauguration ceremony begins, the broadcaster has said. As well as broadcasting Mr Trump’s speech, Katty Kay and Sumi Somaskanda will delve into the analysis, with comments from a panel of experts.
Sky News will also cover the inauguration day live, as will ITV and Channel 4.
The White House will also provide a worldwide live stream.
Keir Starmer congratulates Trump ahead of inauguration
Monday 20 January 2025 07:16 , Jacob PhillipsSir Keir Starmer has congratulated US President-elect Donald Trump ahead of his inauguration and said that the so-called special relationship “will continue to flourish for years to come”.
The president-elect will be sworn in to his second term in the White House on Monday, eight years after he first took the oath of office.
The Prime Minister paid tribute to the “depth of friendship” between the 47th president and the UK, and pledged to continue to “work together to ensure the success of both our countries and deliver for people on both sides of the Atlantic”.
Mr Trump spent the eve of the inauguration at a rally, where he declared his supporters had “built a new American majority that will lead our country to success for generations to come”.
You can read more about what was said here.
Trump pledges executive orders blitz to end 'four long years of American decline'
Monday 20 January 2025 06:59President-elect Donald Trump used a raucous rally on Sunday night to promise swift Day 1 action remaking the federal government, shifting federal priorities at breakneck speed and ensuring that "the curtain closes on four long years of American decline."
Supporters filled nearly all of the 20,000-plus-seat Capital One Arena in downtown Washington for a "Make America Great" victory celebration, and cheered as Trump said he'd take quick action on everything from cracking down on the US-Mexico border to promoting oil drilling, reining in the federal workforce and eradicating diversity programmes.
"We're going to give them the best first day, the biggest first week and the most extraordinary first 100 days of any presidency in American history," said Trump, who also promised to roll back executive actions by his predecessor, outgoing President Joe Biden, "within hours."
Donald Trump to be inaugurated as US President today
Monday 20 January 2025 06:54 , Michael HowieThe London Standard is resuming its coverage of Donald Trump’s inauguration as 47th US President - as America, the UK and the rest of the world prepares to witness his astonishing return to the White House later today.
We’ll bring you all the major developments on what promises to be a remarkable day of political theatre.
The Trumps and the Obamas
Sunday 19 January 2025 16:36
Mr Trump was also a vocal critic of Barack Obama, who served as the 44th President of the United States between 2009 and 2017. For years he questioned Mr Obama’s birth certificate, not believing that the 63-year-old was born in Hawaii and fueling conspiracy theories around his birthplace, until finally acknowledging that Obama was indeed born in the US in 2016.
After peacefully handing over power to Mr Trump in January 2017, the former President became a frequent target of Mr Trump’s attacks, especially concerning his involvement in the Paris climate accord, Cuba policy and unsustained accusations that Mr Obama ordered wiretapping at Trump Tower. At a convention for the Democratic Party in 2020, Mr Obama said that then-President Trump has shown “no interest in treating the presidency as anything but one more reality show that he can use to get the attention he craves”.
Mr Obama’s wife, former First Lady Michelle Obama has also been a vocal critic of Mr Trump, accusing him of promoting birtherism with the false allegations about her husband’s birth certificate and the “ugly, misogynistic, racist lies” he made about his opponent in the presidential race, Kamala Harris. “My husband and I, sadly, know a little something about this. For years, Donald Trump did everything in his power to make people fear us.”
However, it seems as though relationships between the Obamas and the Trumps have sweetened recently. After Mr Obama and Mr Trump were seen chatting at former president Jimmy Carter’s funeral earlier this month, Mr Trump told a reporter that the pair “probably do” like each other. “We have a little different philosophies, right? But we probably do. I don’t know. We just got along. But I got along with just about everybody.”
Although she joined her husband for Mr Trump’s 2017 inauguration, Michelle Obama – who also wasn’t present at Mr Carter’s funeral – has revealed that she won’t attend Mr Trump’s upcoming inauguration. She hasn’t explained her reasons why.
Mike Waltz pledges to pack Israel in Gaza ceasefire situation
Sunday 19 January 2025 14:48 , Will MataPresident-elect Donald Trump's incoming national security adviser, Mike Waltz, said on Sunday that if Hamas reneges on the Gaza ceasefire-for-hostages deal, the United States will support Israel "in doing what it has to do”.
He added in an interview with CBS's Face the Nation: "Hamas will never govern Gaza. That is completely unacceptable."
Mr Waltz said Mr Trump and his team have made clear to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, adding: "I want the Israeli people to hear me loud and clear."
"If Hamas reneges on this deal and Hamas backs out, moves the goalpost, what have you, we will support Israel in doing what it has to do," he said.
Waltz was also optimistic about the Trump administration being able to broker a normalisation deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia as part of the Abraham Accords.
"Save TikTok" writes Donald Trump
Sunday 19 January 2025 14:36 , Will MataDonald Trump has shared a message on his Truth Social network writing plainly, in capitals: “SAVE TIKTOK!”.
The president-elect has said he will consider undoing a ban on the Chinese-owned short video platform wafter he takes office on Monday.
Mr Trump has been very active on his own social media platform on Sunday despite having returned to Twitter since it was taken over by his cheerleader Elon Musk.
Labour minister distances government from Sir Sadiq Khan's warning about fascism
Sunday 19 January 2025 12:46 , Will MataA cabinet minister has refuted Sir Sadiq Khan’s warning that Donald Trump’s imminent inauguration will bring about “resurgent fascism”.
Darren Jones, chief secretary to the treasury, has instead said Britain "has prepared for all scenarios" regarding a trade deal with the US - as he spoke to the media on Sunday.
Mr Trump is hours away from being sworn in as the 47th president of the US and the Labour government has been rolling out a charm offensive to maintain the so-called special relationship with its ally.
But Mr Jones’s partymate Sir Sadiq made his thoughts known in Sunday’s edition of the Observer, the Mayor of London warning it is a “perilous moment”.
TikTok vanishes in US as ban takes effect and Trump hints at possible reprieve
Sunday 19 January 2025 12:16 , Will MataTikTok stopped functioning in the United States late on Saturday and vanished from Apple and Google app stores ahead of a new law requiring its shutdown, set to take effect on Sunday.
The platform’s 170 million American users were met with a message referencing President-elect Donald Trump, who indicated he would “most likely” grant the app a 90-day reprieve from the ban.
Patel brands Reform as a 'pop up act' ahead of Trump inauguration
Sunday 19 January 2025 11:29 , Will MataDame Priti Patel has branded Reform UK a "pop-up act" ahead of Donald Trump's inauguration, after she was pressed on party leader Nigel Farage's relationship with the US president-elect.
It comes after Mr Farage described some members of the incoming president's cabinet as "genuine friends on speed dial".
A number of UK figures, including Dame Priti and Mr Farage, have been invited to Washington for Monday's ceremonies.
When asked if she will have to make peace with Clacton's MP in order to get a hearing in the White House, the shadow foreign secretary argued this is not relevant.
Speaking to Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips on Sky News, Dame Priti described the Conservatives and the Republican Party as "sister parties".
Donald Trump and the UK
Sunday 19 January 2025 10:30
It’s safe to say that over the years, Donald Trump’s relationship with the UK has been a rocky one. The likes of David Lammy and London mayor Sadiq Khan have criticised or even engaged in spats with Mr Trump in the past, while former Prime Minister Boris Johnson had a far more pleasant relationship with the President-elect, with Mr Trump even giving him his personal phone number in 2019.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s centre-left position seems at odds with Mr Trump’s far-right approach to politics, however Sir Keir did congratulate the President-elect on his “historic election victory”, saying in an announcement that he was looking forward to working with him over the coming years and that “the UK-US special relationship will continue to prosper on both sides of the Atlantic for years to come.” It’s also been reportedly recently that Sir Keir is keen to establish a trade deal with the US as soon as Mr Trump comes into power, amid threats the President-elect has previously made about potential high tariffs for EU trade.
On paper, the leaders have opposing views on many issues: from the climate emergency to involvement in the Ukraine war. Earlier this month, Mr Trump took a swipe at Labour’s energy policy, specifically its plans to increase windfall tax on North Sea energy producers and quadruple offshore wind farms by 2030. “The UK is making a very big mistake,” Mr Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Open up the North Sea. Get rid of Windmills!”
It’ll be interesting to see how their relationship plays out with Mr Trump back in power, especially with the leader of Reform UK, Nigel Farrage – who most recently challenged the Government over its handling of the child grooming scandal – cosying up to Mr Trump over the last few years.
Talks with Donald Trump to continue around free trade deal
Sunday 19 January 2025 10:27 , Will MataIt is vital the UK Government resumes negotiations with Donald Trump and secures a free trade deal, shadow foreign secretary Dame Priti Patel has said.
She told the BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg: "I think this Government, the Labour Government ... Keir Starmer and David Lammy, should resume talks over a free trade deal. We set the work in motion when we were last in government.
"When it comes to tariffs, that is not conducive at all to economic growth and prosperity, let alone economic security.
"So, it's right, I mean, at the end of the day, friends can speak candidly to one another, and I think that's really why our relationship is an enduring relationship.
"Trade discussions must resume. I think that's absolutely vital, because it's only through having honest discussions about a trade arrangement, a trade agreement, will these issues come to the fore."
Peter Mandelson set to be named ambassador
Sunday 19 January 2025 09:59 , Will MataChief Secretary to the Treasury Darren Jones has suggested he is confident that Lord Peter Mandelson will be approved as the UK's new ambassador to the US.
Asked on the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme whether he was "confident" that Donald Trump's administration will accept the nomination, Mr Jones said: "Yeah. For the first time in, I think, maybe 50 years, this is the first time that a British Prime Minister has picked a politician to be the ambassador in DC.
"We have brilliant diplomats and Karen Pierce has done a brilliant job, but the reason the Prime Minister picked Peter Mandelson was because we want to do things differently.
"We recognise the important relationship between our two countries. There are lots of opportunities there on trade and the way in which our countries collaborate, whether it's on technology, or on finance or on defence and security issues.
"I think Peter Mandelson will be a brilliant ambassador for us and will form a very strong partnership with the new administration."
Donald Trump faces "big decisions" over China
Sunday 19 January 2025 09:17 , Will MataTariffs and relationships with China could be among the first issues up for discussion when Donald Trump re-enters the White House, according to the director of the Chatham House foreign affairs think tank.
Bronwen Maddox said she believes the US administration has “become the big question for UK foreign policy”, and the UK will be faced with having to “make some decisions” about its positions on certain issues.
Caitlin Doherty has the full story here.
Civil rights leaders and King family mark MLK Day as a special call to action as Trump takes office
Sunday 19 January 2025 07:56 , Will MataWhen President-elect Donald Trump is sworn in as president of the United States inside the Capitol's rotunda, he will do so facing a bust of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr on the federal holiday commemorating King's legacy.
It's a disquieting contrast for some civil rights advocates who wish to fulfill the late reverend's dream of non-violent social revolution.
Events honoring Dr King and advocating for his vision of a just society will occur across the nation as many in the U.S. observe the peaceful transfer of power in the capital. The concurrent events have been met with mixed feelings by civil rights leaders, who broadly reviled Trump's rhetoric and stances on race and civil rights during his third presidential campaign.
But many leaders, including King's own family, see the juxtaposition as a poignant contrast and a chance to refocus the work of advancing civil rights in a new political era.
"I'm glad it occurred on that day because it gives the United States of America and the world the contrast in pictures. Is this the way you want to go — or is this the way you want to go?" said the Rev. Bernice King, the late Dr King's youngest daughter and CEO of the King Center.
What is Donald Trump's relationship with Joe Biden?
Saturday 18 January 2025 23:27
Mr Trump was set to take on President Biden in last year’s election before the 82-year-old dropped out of the race, eventually being replaced by Vice President Kamala Harris. President Biden famously won the 2020 US election over then-President Trump, who claimed the Democrat’s win was “stolen”.
Since President Biden took office in January 2021, Mr Trump has been a vocal critic of his former opponent - even refusing to attend his inauguration, a tradition for departing presidents. Over his presidency, Trump has lambasted Biden’s policys and decisions, especially when it came to US involvement in the Ukranian war and the conflict in the Middle East. He said that President Biden’s “weakness” enabled Hamas to carry out their attack on Israel on October 7.
Since being elected a second time around, Trump has threatened to roll back a number of Biden’s pledges. One of them is the Inflation Reduction Act, which was introduced by Biden’s government in 2022 and involves the largest investment in clean energy in the country’s history ($300 billion).
When a ceasefire in the Middle East conflict was agreed on January 15, both men were quick to claim credit. In response to being asked who should be praised for the deal at a press conference, President Biden retorted, “Is that a joke?” before walking away. He previously told the press that the agreement came after “the precise contours” of a plan he introduced back in May.
Trump, however, claims that the agreement was only possible because he won the election in November. “It signalled to the entire World that my Administration would seek Peace and negotiate deals to ensure to safety of all Americans, and our Allies,” he wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social.
It's a family affair
Saturday 18 January 2025 16:19
Mr Trump has five children from three wives: Donald Jr, 47, Ivanka, 43, Eric, 41, Tiffany, 31, and Barron, 18.
Several of his children have stepped into the spotlight to work with him on The Apprentice, real estate ventures and even advised him during his presidential campaign.
While Ivanka and her husband Jared Kushner were omnipresent in Mr Trump’s first term, fewer members of his family will form the Cabinet for his second administration.
Donald Jr is reported to take on a White House role and work for a venture capital firm with ties to Tucker Carlson.
Eric is expected to continue leading the Trump organisation while Barron could continue serving as unofficial Gen Z advisor.
Tiffany and Ivanka are expected to remain distanced to politics.
What is the People’s March?
Saturday 18 January 2025 16:03 , Sami QuadriThousands of people are expected to take to the streets of Washington DC today for the People’s March, the newly rebranded protest movement previously known as the Women’s March, which has been held annually since 2017.
The first march, held the day after Donald Trump’s inauguration, saw hundreds of thousands gather in the US capital and millions more demonstrate globally against the Republican president. None of the subsequent marches have matched the scale of that initial event.
Saturday’s demonstration is also not expected to draw such large numbers, with Washington’s Metropolitan Police estimating a crowd of around 25,000, while organisers predict it will reach 50,000.
The organisers say they are marching because they believe "a new social movement can rise to confront what they call 'Trumpism,' drawing on past successes and effective strategies against autocrats."
The tech bros heading to the inauguration
Saturday 18 January 2025 10:10
Among those given pride of place at the inauguration ceremony will be the tech chiefs who are competing for the affections of Donald Trump in his new presidency.
On the back of his Blue Origin rocket success, former Amazon boss Jeff Bezos is expected to attend proceedings - as is fellow space investor, the born again Mr Trump evangelist Elon Musk.
Having last week announced that Meta would back down on its fact checking imperative in favour of community notes, Mark Zuckerberg is also expected in Washington DC to try to further enhance his standing.
More surprisingly, TikTok boss Shou Chew was given an invitation even though, as 45th president, Mr Trump had tried to block the app in 2020.
People's March returns to Washington ahead of Donald Trump’s inauguration
Saturday 18 January 2025 08:36 , Sami QuadriThe Women’s March, which drew millions in 2017 after Donald Trump’s first election victory, is returning to Washington this weekend, rebranded as the People’s March to broaden its appeal.
The rally comes just days before President-elect Trump takes the oath of office on Monday. It also marks eight years since the movement's historic first demonstration, which saw more than 500,000 people march in the nation’s capital and millions more rally in cities across the country.
Organisers say this year’s march is expected to be about one-tenth the size of the original event. The smaller turnout reflects what many describe as a moment of exhaustion and disappointment among progressive voters following Vice President Kamala Harris’ loss in November.
The rebranding to the People’s March aims to reach a wider audience and reinvigorate the grassroots organising that emerged in 2017.
What does Trump want from Greenland?
Saturday 18 January 2025 02:02
Mr Trump has expressed a fresh desire to seize control of Greenland, the biggest island in the world and a mostly autonomous Danish colony in the Arctic.
He initially hinted at his plan of acquiring Greenland during his first term as President in 2019. He recently went one step further and refused to rule out military or economic force to seize control of the territory.
According to Mr Trump, maintaining control over Greenland is crucial for the economic and national security of the US. His priority is for the frontiers of American power to be extended into Canada, Greenland and southward to include the Panama Canal.
However, Greenland is more than just a piece of territory that Denmark may sell whenever it wants. The Inuit, who make up almost 90 per cent of Greenland's population, have been steadily gaining independence in recent decades.
In 1979, Greenland gained home rule, complete with its own parliament, and after a referendum in 2008, it gained even more political sovereignty.
All eyes on the crowd size
Friday 17 January 2025 18:55
Attention will not just be on Mr Trump but on the size of the crowd that the 47th president is able to attract to his inauguration.
In 2017, Mr Trump’s press secretary Sean Spicer suggested that 420,000 turned out for the event - when it was actually 193,000 for the morning and 570,557 for the full day according to Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority data.
Mr Spicer said this compared favourably to the 317,000 who turned out for Barack Obama’s inauguration in 2013. In actual fact, that figure was just for the morning with 782,000 across the whole day.
But Mr Trump’s campaign strategist and counselor, Kellyanne Conway defended her colleague on NNC news show Meet the Press and said Mr Spicer had given “alternative facts”.
Despite this, Mr Trump lashed out at the "dishonest media" when pictures began circulating of the thick crowds Mr Obama had attracted compared to his own much sparser showing.
First time inauguration has moved indoors since 1985
Friday 17 January 2025 17:32 , Matt WattsThe Rotunda is prepared as the inclement weather alternative for each inauguration in the event of inclement weather.
The swearing-in was last moved indoors in 1985, when President Ronald Reagan began his second term. Monday's forecast calls for the lowest inauguration day temperatures since that day.
Alternate plans required for those planning to view the event
Friday 17 January 2025 17:30Alternate plans are required for the more roughly 250,000 guests ticketed to view the inauguration from around the Capitol grounds and the tens of thousands more expected to be in general admission areas or to line the inaugural parade route from the Capitol to the White House, the Associated Press reports.
It says Trump said some supporters would be able to watch the ceremony from Washington's Capital One area on Monday, a day after he plans to hold a rally there. He said he would visit the arena after his swearing-in.
The National Weather Service is predicting the temperature to be around 22 degrees (minus-6 Celsius) at noon during the swearing-in, the coldest since Reagan's second inauguration saw temperatures plunge to 7 degrees (minus-14 Celsius). Barack Obama's 2009 swearing-in was 28 degrees (minus-2 Celsius). Adding to the bite: Wind is forecast to be 30 to 35 mph (48 to 56 kph), sending wind chills into the single digits.
Trump's swearing in to be moved indoors due to extreme cold weather
Friday 17 January 2025 17:24 , Matt WattsPresident-elect Donald Trump is now due to take the oath of office from inside the Capitol Rotunda on Monday due to forecasts of intense cold weather.
"The weather forecast for Washington, D.C., with the windchill factor, could take temperatures into severe record lows," Trump posted on his Truth Social platform. "There is an Arctic blast sweeping the Country. I don't want to see people hurt, or injured, in any way."
"It is dangerous conditions for the tens of thousands of law enforcement, first responders, police K9s and even horses, and hundreds of thousands of supporters that will be outside for many hours on the 20th.
"In any event, if you decide to come, dress warmly."
Who of Trump's political rivals will attend?
Friday 17 January 2025 13:14
Biden will attend the inauguration ceremony despite Trump not attending Biden’s 2021 swear-in and leaving the capital for Florida. The ceremony occurred only a fortnight after the January 6 insurrection when protestors stormed the US Capitol to stop the certification of Biden’s elections.
Trump became the first president in 150 years not to attend an inauguration and never conceded his 2020 defeat after efforts to overturn the loss based on unfounded theories of voter fraud.
Biden, who was present at Trump’s swearing-in ceremony in 2017, recently said “the only president who ever avoided an inauguration is the guy about to be inaugurated.”
The US has a long history of defeated presidential candidates sharing the inaugural state with those who have defeated them, meaning Kamala Harris is also due to attend the ceremony.
Barack Obama and other living former presidents will attend, as is tradition.
Michelle Obama, however, will be absent.
What is the weather looking like for the inauguration?
Friday 17 January 2025 08:10
Given his propensity for sensitivity over the size of crowd he can attract, it is bad news for Donald Trump that freezing weather has been forecast for Monday.
The BBC has predicted it will be -5C for midday, when the president will take to the podium. It will be even colder later in the afternoon when he is set to take part in a military parade around the capital.
“We’re going to have dangerously cold temperatures with low wind chills,” said Brian LaSorsa, meteorologist with the National Weather Service in the US. Mr Trump will be hoping supporters beyond his die-hards will brave the sub zero winter to cheer in his new reign.
Click here to read the full blog on The The Standard's website
