Donald Trump's policies have recently come under scrutiny, particularly regarding trade and scientific research. As president, Trump announced a 100% tariff on movies produced outside the U.S., citing concerns over the American movie industry's decline due to foreign incentives. Trump stated this was a response to a concerted effort by other nations, posing a national security threat. He authorized the Department of Commerce and the United States Trade Representative to implement the tariff, emphasizing the need to produce movies in America again. Despite these protectionist measures, recent data indicated resilience in the U.S. box office, which reached approximately $8.7 billion last year, a slight decline from 2023’s $9 billion, showing improvement despite COVID-19 and industry strikes.

In contrast to Trump's approach, French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen have criticized Trump's policies on science and research. The European Union is actively seeking to attract researchers from the U.S. by offering incentives. Von der Leyen announced a 500 million euro package to make the EU a magnet for researchers, condemning the questioning of science's role in today's world as a miscalculation. Macron highlighted that universities and research facilities in the U.S. face increasing political and financial pressure under Trump, including threats of funding cuts. Both leaders emphasized Europe's role as a sanctuary for independent research, with France earmarking an additional 100 million euros to attract foreign talent. They target researchers in health, climate, biodiversity, AI, and space sectors, offering financial assistance and tax incentives.

Furthermore, Trump's administration has been engaged in trade negotiations with several countries, including China, aiming to secure a fair trade deal. Despite no immediate plans to speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping, U.S. officials are in communication with their Chinese counterparts. Trump suggested potential trade deals could be announced soon but also indicated that some countries might face new tariffs if agreements are not reached. He has criticized China's trade practices, claiming they have been detrimental to the U.S. for many years and has described former President Richard Nixon's opening of relations with China as a mistake. However, Trump also expressed optimism about reaching a fair deal with China, stating that they are eager to make an agreement after a period of strained trade relations.