The first quarter of 2025 saw significant shifts in U.S. policy and global developments. In January, President Trump signed Executive Order 14169, enacting a 90-day freeze on all U.S. foreign development aid to reassess its alignment with national interests and values.
By March, the administration imposed steep tariffs—25% on imports from Canada and Mexico, and 20% on Chinese imports—sparking retaliatory actions from affected nations. The move, aimed at addressing the U.S. trade deficit, caused unease in global markets and raised concerns of a renewed trade war.
In the tech world, Elon Musk made headlines as his AI company xAI acquired social platform X in a $45 billion all-stock deal, signaling a shift toward AI-driven social media. Musk's temporary role leading the Department of Government Efficiency ends in May, but he will remain a senior advisor, as confirmed by Vice President J.D. Vance.
Internationally, Bulgaria and Romania joined the Schengen Area in March, eliminating land border checks and advancing EU integration. Meanwhile, Myanmar faced a humanitarian crisis following a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake and strong aftershock on March 28.
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