Foreign Policy Directives
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.
Immediate Declassification of Materials Related to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Crossfire Hurricane Investigation
President Donald J. Trump issued a memorandum directing the immediate declassification of materials related to the FBI's Crossfire Hurricane investigation.
The memorandum exempted materials protected under Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court orders and those containing personally identifiable information or otherwise protected by law.
The Attorney General was tasked with making the declassified materials publicly available.
IMPOSING TARIFFS ON COUNTRIES IMPORTING VENEZUELAN OIL
President Trump issued an executive order imposing a 25% tariff on goods imported from any country importing Venezuelan oil, effective April 2, 2025.
The order cites the ongoing national emergency related to Venezuela and the destabilizing activities of the Maduro regime and the Tren de Aragua gang as justification.
The Secretary of State, in consultation with other relevant Secretaries, will determine which countries will be subject to the tariff, which will expire one year after the country's last import of Venezuelan oil.
The order also includes provisions for administration, enforcement, and periodic reporting on its effectiveness.
GREEK INDEPENDENCE DAY: A NATIONAL DAY OF CELEBRATION OF GREEK AND AMERICAN DEMOCRACY, 2025
President Donald J. Trump's proclamation designates March 25, 2025, as Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy.
The proclamation commemorates the 204th anniversary of Greece's independence from the Ottoman Empire, emphasizing the enduring historical ties and shared democratic ideals between the two nations.
It highlights the ongoing strategic partnership between the US and Greece, particularly in defense and economic collaboration, and celebrates the rich contributions of Greek Americans to American society.
Preventing Abuses of the Legal System and the Federal Court
This presidential memorandum directs the Attorney General and Secretary of Homeland Security to crack down on unethical conduct by lawyers and law firms, particularly those actions that threaten national security, homeland security, public safety, or election integrity.
The memorandum cites specific examples of misconduct, referencing the 2016 'dossier' and fraudulent asylum claims.
It mandates investigations into past conduct, sanctions for frivolous litigation, and referral of attorneys for disciplinary action, including possible security clearance reassessment and contract termination.
Rescinding Security Clearances and Access to Classified Information from Specified Individuals
This Presidential memorandum directs all executive departments and agencies to revoke security clearances and access to classified information from a list of specified individuals, including prominent political figures and public officials.
The action is justified on the grounds that granting these individuals continued access is no longer in the national interest.
The memorandum explicitly rescinds access to classified briefings and unescorted access to government facilities.