Defense Directives

Addressing the Threat to National Security from Imports of Copper

This Presidential order directs the Secretary of Commerce to investigate the national security implications of US dependence on foreign copper imports.

The order cites concerns about vulnerabilities in the copper supply chain, particularly the dominance of a single foreign producer, and the critical role of copper in defense, infrastructure, and emerging technologies.

The investigation will assess the effects of copper imports on national security, considering factors like domestic production capacity, foreign competition effects, and the potential for foreign market manipulation.

The Secretary of Commerce is tasked with submitting a report including findings on national security threats and recommendations for mitigating those risks, including potential tariffs, export controls, and incentives for domestic production.

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The Presidential memorandum establishes an "America First" investment policy aimed at bolstering US national and economic security.

It prioritizes investments from allies while significantly restricting those from adversaries, particularly China, focusing on sectors like technology, infrastructure, and critical resources.

The policy utilizes existing mechanisms like CFIUS and explores new legal tools, including potential sanctions, to counter adversary acquisition of sensitive US assets.

Expedited review processes for allied investments and stricter oversight of adversary investments are key components.

The memorandum also initiates reviews of existing tax treaties and financial regulations to further protect US interests and direct investment toward domestic growth.

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Ensuring Lawful Governance and Implementing the President’s “Department of Government Efficiency” Regulatory Initiative

This executive order directs a comprehensive review of existing federal regulations to identify and potentially rescind those deemed unlawful, unconstitutional, or detrimental to the national interest.

Agencies are tasked with reviewing regulations according to specified criteria, prioritizing those with significant costs or impacts.

The aim is to limit federal overreach, improve regulatory efficiency, and restore the constitutional separation of powers.

The order also establishes a process for reviewing proposed regulations through the Office of Management and Budget.

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80th Anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima

Published: Thu 20th Feb 25

President Donald J. Trump's proclamation designates February 19, 2025, as the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima.

The proclamation commemorates the battle's significance in World War II, highlighting the immense sacrifices and courage of American servicemen.

It underscores the battle's lasting impact on the U.S.-Japan alliance and emphasizes the enduring legacy of the "Greatest Generation."

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President Trump Announces Appointments to the Council of Governors

Published: Thu 20th Feb 25

President Donald J. Trump announced new appointments to the bipartisan Council of Governors.

This council, established to enhance collaboration between state and federal governments, focuses on national security, disaster response, and military coordination.

The appointees include governors from various states, with Glenn Youngkin (VA) and Josh Stein (NC) serving as co-chairs.

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Establishing the National Energy Dominance Council

This Presidential order establishes the National Energy Dominance Council within the Executive Office of the President.

The Council, chaired by the Secretary of the Interior, will advise the President on strategies to achieve energy dominance through increased domestic production and reduced reliance on foreign energy sources.

The order aims to drive down inflation, boost economic growth, create jobs, and enhance national security.

The Council is tasked with developing a national energy strategy, recommending policy changes, and coordinating across various federal agencies.

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Adjusting Imports of Steel into The United States

President Trump issued a proclamation significantly increasing tariffs on aluminum imports from 10% to 25%, citing national security concerns.

The proclamation terminates previous agreements with Argentina, Australia, Canada, Mexico, the European Union, and the United Kingdom allowing for exceptions to the tariffs and eliminates a process for granting import exclusions.

These actions were taken because the President determined that previous attempts to address excessive aluminum imports had not sufficiently protected the domestic aluminum industry's national security, resulting in continued high import volumes and underutilization of domestic production capacity.

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President Trump Announces the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board

Published: Wed 12th Feb 25

President Donald Trump announced the appointments of a new President’s Intelligence Advisory Board (PIAB).

The board, chaired by Devin Gerald Nunes, comprises individuals with diverse backgrounds intended to advise the President on national security issues and ensure the Intelligence Community aligns with the 'America First' agenda.

The appointees include Scott Glabe, Amaryllis Fox Kennedy, Brad Robert Wenstrup, Wayne Berman, Reince Priebus, Robert O’Brien, Joshua Lobel, Sander R. Gerber, Katie Miller, Jeremy Katz, and Thomas Ollis Hicks, Jr.

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