  US presidential election 2024

Shortly after his inauguration, US President Donald Trump signed a slew of executive orders in front of his supporters. With some 80 orders, he rescinded many measures introduced by his predecessor Joe Biden and announced more to come. Among other things, he plans to fire numerous government employees, seal off the border with Mexico and pardon the Capitol attackers. Commentators see major repercussions.

Donald Trump will be inaugurated as President of the United States for the second time today. Due to freezing temperatures, the swearing-in ceremony is to take place inside at the Capitol Rotunda instead of outside, as is usually the case. Commentators see a turning point and discuss the prospects for the US and the rest of the world.

Russia's war against Ukraine, China's threatening stance in the South China Sea and vis-à-vis Taiwan, and now Donald Trump's statements regarding Greenland, the Panama Canal and Canada have sparked fears that the world could be on the verge of a new battle for spheres of influence reminiscent of 19th century expansionism and colonialism. Europe's press discusses the role Europe should play in such a scenario.

The US Congress has officially certified Donald Trump's victory in the November presidential election. The procedure went off smoothly in a joint session of both houses of Congress – in stark contrast to four years ago when Trump supporters stormed the Capitol. Trump will now take the oath of office on 20 January and, with a Republican majority in both chambers, push through his agenda.