Washington: Donald Trump took office as the United States' 47th president, renewing his vow to "put America first" and impose tariffs on foreign countries to benefit Americans, while signaling an intent to avoid military involvement in overseas conflicts.
According to Yonhap News Agency, during his swearing-in ceremony in the Capitol Rotunda, Trump, 78, emphasized his America First credo, anticipating a significant shift in the U.S.'s approach to alliances, trade, and other key issues. Vice President J.D. Vance was also sworn in. Trump's inaugural address highlighted the start of a "golden age of America," asserting that the country would flourish and regain global respect, becoming the envy of every nation.
Trump pledged to build the "strongest military the world has ever seen" and expressed a desire to end wars abroad and refrain from foreign conflicts. His America First agenda is expected to reduce America's overseas military involvement, pressure allies and partners to take on greater security responsibilities, and address U.S. trade deficits.
In his address, Trump also promised to overhaul America's trade system to protect American workers and families. He proposed imposing tariffs on foreign countries to enrich American citizens, though he did not provide specifics. During his campaign, he suggested tariffs of 10 to 20 percent on all imports and up to 60 percent on Chinese goods.
Trump reaffirmed his intent to retake the Panama Canal, claiming unfair treatment of American ships, and announced plans to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. He envisioned a growing U.S., expanding wealth, territory, and influence, and expressed ambitions to launch American astronauts to Mars.
Trump committed to "make America great again," pledging to address crises with dignity, power, and strength, and declared January 20, 2025, as "Liberation Day" for American citizens. He announced plans to sign executive orders on his first day in office, including declaring a national emergency at the southern border and designating cartels as foreign terrorist organizations.
A White House press release detailed key policy decisions, including a national energy emergency declaration, efforts to build critical energy infrastructure, and withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord. Trump blamed the inflation crisis on overspending and escalating energy prices, emphasizing a focus on domestic energy production.
Trump's inauguration marked a significant political comeback, overcoming challenges including attempts on his life and a criminal conviction. His return to the Oval Office coincides with political uncertainty in South Korea following the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol.
The swearing-in ceremony, initially planned for the Capitol's West Front, was moved indoors due to cold temperatures. The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies distributed 220,000 tickets, but many watched the livestream. South Korea's Ambassador to the United States, Cho Hyun-dong, was present to represent Seoul.
Inauguration Day began with a service at St. John's Episcopal Church, followed by tea with outgoing President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. A highlight of the ceremony was Trump taking the oath of office administered by Chief Justice John Roberts, using two Bibles, including one given by his mother and the Lincoln Bible. Later, Trump is expected to sign executive orders in the Oval Office.