White House 1600 Daily: Bold American diplomacy in Finland

The Day Ahead

President Donald J. Trump will meet with members of Congress to discuss options for further tax reform to help working Americans.

Bold American diplomacy in Finland

When President Trump met with Russian President Vladimir Putin yesterday, he continued a proud American tradition on the world stage. “From the earliest days of our republic, American leaders have understood that diplomacy and engagement is preferable to conflict and hostility,” the President said. America has no illusions when it comes to Russia. President Trump directly addressed the issue of Russian interference in U.S. elections with President Putin, and the Trump Administration has implemented a range of tough sanctions on Russian individuals and entities. “The disagreements between our two countries are well known,” President Trump said. “But if we’re going to solve many of the problems facing our world, then we’re going to have to find ways to cooperate.” The bottom line: Americans want peace, not conflict. “Nothing would be easier politically than to refuse to meet, to refuse to engage, but that would not accomplish anything. As president, I cannot make decisions on foreign policy in a futile effort to appease partisan critics,” President Trump said. “As the world’s two largest nuclear powers, we must get along!” President Trump tweeted. Watch President Trump’s press conference with President Putin. Sen. Rand Paul: President Trump was right. America needs fewer enemies.

The First Lady’s trip to Europe

First Lady Melania Trump accompanied President Trump to Europe last week, helping the President to build lasting relationships with America’s allies. In Belgium, the First Lady took part in the official spousal program of the NATO summit. “It was an opportunity for us to come together in an exchange of ideas, and appreciate the unique cultural traits of Belgium,” she said. In the United Kingdom, the First Lady visited the Royal Hospital Chelsea, where she joined Philip May—husband of British Prime Minister Theresa May—and local schoolchildren in making symbols of remembrance for fallen soldiers. “It is always an honor to meet with soldiers who have dedicated a life of service to their country,” the First Lady said. Read more about the First Lady’s trips to Belgium and England. In photos: See more from the President and First Lady’s trip to Europe.