📅 1. Cabinet Meeting and Statement Release
1. Meeting Time and Agenda
- Trump hosted a cabinet meeting at 11:30 AM EST on December 2 (12:30 AM Beijing time on December 3), focusing on Venezuela, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and other topics.
- A major statement is planned to be released at 2:00 PM EST (3:00 AM Beijing time on December 3) after the meeting, with speculation involving Russia-Ukraine negotiations or actions in Venezuela.
2. Situation in Venezuela
- Military Deployment: The U.S. has assembled 15,000 soldiers and the 'USS Ford' carrier strike group in the Caribbean, with the operation code-named 'Southern Spear', targeting the Maduro regime.
- Negotiations broke down: During a call with Maduro, Trump rejected the conditions of 'retaining military power' and 'global criminal immunity', demanding he leave within a week (the deadline expired on November 28).
- Closing airspace: Trump stated this move was merely a warning to 'unfriendly nations' and denied it signaled an airstrike.
🌍 2. Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
1. Position on the Russia-Ukraine Conflict
- Trump hopes to end the conflict within 6 months and understands Russia's opposition to Ukraine joining NATO.
- U.S.-Russia envoy Whittaker met with Putin on December 2 to discuss the revised 28-point peace plan (including territorial concessions, disarmament, and other clauses).
2. Tightening Immigration Policies
- In response to the attack on the National Guard by Afghan terrorists, Trump emphasized that he 'does not welcome immigrants from uncontrolled countries (like Somalia)', plans to impose long-term restrictions on asylum policies, and even considers revoking citizenship for 'improperly naturalized individuals'.
3. NATO Military Spending Requirements
- Again requested NATO member countries to increase military spending to 5% of GDP (the original target was 2%).
💊 3. Domestic Policy and Economy
1. Commitment to Healthcare Reform
- Claimed to reduce U.S. drug prices by 500%-700% through 'most-favored-nation' policies, calling it 'the biggest breakthrough in a century'.
2. Federal Reserve Personnel Movements
- Trump stated 'the Federal Reserve Chair nominee has been finalized', expecting an announcement early next year (White House economic advisor Hassett is a strong candidate).
- Previously fired Biden-appointed board member Lisa Cook, indicating a clear intention to lower interest rates.
🧩 4. Cabinet Personnel Changes
1. Controversy over Defense Secretary Nomination
- The original nominee Peter Hegseth was replaced due to a sexual assault scandal, with plans to nominate Florida Governor DeSantis instead.
- DEA Director nominee Kronister voluntarily withdrew his nomination, stating he is 'unable to serve'.
2. Other Key Appointments
- New nominations include: NASA Administrator (Jared Isaacman), Secretary of the Army (Daniel Driscoll), IRS Commissioner (Billy Long), and others.
💎 Summary
The December 3 cabinet meeting focused on military actions in Venezuela and Russia-Ukraine peace talks, with Trump's tough diplomacy (on Venezuela, immigration) and domestic economic policies (drug prices, Federal Reserve) becoming core issues. Cabinet personnel continues to adjust, with some nominations changing due to scandals or candidate withdrawals. Its statement may further reveal the direction of actions towards Venezuela.
It is worth mentioning that the Federal Reserve Chair nominee (White House economic advisor Hassett) is definitely a 'dove', more resolute and decisive on the issue of interest rate cuts. Coupled with stopping balance sheet reduction, this will be the biggest boon.
