Defense Directives

Review of Proposed United States Steel Corporation Acquisition

President Biden issued a memorandum ordering the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to conduct a thorough review of Nippon Steel's proposed acquisition of U.S. Steel.

This action, based on concerns about potential national security risks, mandates a de novo review by CFIUS, which must submit a recommendation within 45 days on whether proposed mitigation measures are sufficient.

The President's order builds upon a prior prohibition of the acquisition and reserves the right to take further action if deemed necessary.

Extending the TikTok Enforcement Delay

This Presidential Action extends the enforcement delay of the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, specifically targeting TikTok, until June 19, 2025.

The Department of Justice is instructed to take no enforcement action during this period and to issue guidance clarifying that no violations occurred during the delay.

The order emphasizes the Attorney General's exclusive authority to enforce the Act, preventing state or private actions.

Furthermore, it clarifies that the order does not create any new legal rights.

Regulating Imports with a Reciprocal Tariff to Rectify Trade Practices that Contribute to Large and Persistent Annual United States Goods Trade Deficits

President Trump declared a national emergency due to substantial and persistent US goods trade deficits, citing a lack of reciprocity in trade relationships, unfair trade practices by other countries and the negative impacts on US economic and national security.

The President issued an executive order imposing an initial 10% ad valorem duty on all imports, with higher duties for specific countries based on their trade practices.

The order included provisions for exceptions, modification based on later developments and reporting requirements to Congress.

This action aims to restore balance in global trade and strengthen domestic production.

The White House announced a series of nominations sent to the Senate for confirmation.

These nominations cover various key positions across several departments and agencies, including the Departments of Defense, Army, Navy, Veterans Affairs, Labor, and Commerce, as well as the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The nominees include individuals slated for Assistant Secretary roles, Chief Financial Officer positions, Inspector General, United States Attorney roles for various districts, and other critical leadership positions.

President Trump's March 27, 2025 executive order excludes numerous federal agencies and subdivisions from the Federal Service Labor-Management Relations Statute.

The order claims this exclusion is necessary for national security reasons, impacting intelligence, counterintelligence, investigative, or national security work.

It amends Executive Order 12171 and delegates authority to the Secretaries of Defense, Veterans Affairs, and Transportation to make further exclusions.

The order also requires a review of agencies not currently excluded and mandates changes to related employee assignments and grievance processes.

Excluded agencies and subdivisions primarily serve roles within the Departments of State, Defense, Treasury, Veterans Affairs, Justice, Homeland Security, Interior, Energy, Agriculture, and Commerce, as well as several independent agencies.

Addressing Risks From WilmerHale

This executive order directs a comprehensive review of law firm WilmerHale's security clearances, government contracts, and employee interactions with federal agencies.

The order cites concerns about WilmerHale's alleged involvement in activities deemed detrimental to national security, election integrity, and American interests.

The President directs several agencies to take immediate action, including suspending security clearances, reviewing contracts, limiting access to government facilities, and providing guidance on future hiring practices.

The order also references similar prior executive actions as precedent.

Adjusting Imports of Automobiles and Autombile Parts Into the United States

President Donald J. Trump issued a proclamation in March 2025 imposing a 25% tariff on imported automobiles and certain auto parts.

The action, justified under section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, aims to address national security concerns stemming from vulnerabilities in domestic automotive supply chains and perceived unfair trade practices by foreign competitors.

The proclamation cites the COVID-19 pandemic's disruption of supply chains, the decline in domestic automobile manufacturing, and the rise of foreign automotive industries supported by subsidies and aggressive industrial policies.

While the proclamation offers provisions for USMCA-qualifying vehicles and for a process to modify the tariffs, it represents a significant intervention in the automotive market, with potential economic and geopolitical implications.

Addressing Risks from Jenner & Block

This Presidential Action addresses concerns about Jenner & Block LLP's conduct, alleging actions detrimental to national security and American interests.

It orders a review of security clearances held by Jenner & Block employees, mandates reviews of government contracts with the firm and entities doing business with them, and restricts federal government interaction with Jenner & Block personnel, particularly Andrew Weissmann.

The order aims to prevent taxpayer funding of activities deemed harmful and to protect national security, though it may face criticism for potential overreach of executive authority.