On May 20, 2025, President Donald Trump faced major legislative battles as his sweeping domestic policy bill advanced in Congress. A key House committee convened in the early hours of the morning to debate the bill, but deep divisions between GOP conservatives and moderates threatened its progress. Despite Trump’s confidence after meeting with House Republicans on Capitol Hill, negotiations remained stalled, with lawmakers struggling to finalize the bill’s text.
Meanwhile, Trump announced plans for a “Golden Dome” missile defense system, claiming it would be completed by the end of his term. The ambitious project, designed to protect North America, has faced skepticism from military officials, who previously warned that the timeline was unrealistic.
Trump also continued his push for a Russia-Ukraine ceasefire, following his two-and-a-half-hour call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. He described the war as a “bloodbath”, claiming that 500 young lives were lost weekly. Trump expressed optimism that Russia and Ukraine would begin negotiations toward a ceasefire, though Putin maintained that Russia’s main objective remained unchanged.
Adding to the day’s controversies, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent falsely claimed that gasoline prices had “collapsed” under Trump. While crude oil prices had fallen by 17.5%, the savings had not yet reached consumers, with gas prices remaining virtually unchanged since Trump’s inauguration.
May 20, 2025, underscored the complexities of Trump’s leadership, blending high-stakes legislative battles, ambitious defense projects, and international diplomacy. It highlighted the administration’s ongoing efforts to navigate domestic and global challenges.