Trump to visit Asia, eyeing major investment deals

Japan earlier promised $550 billion, while South Korea offered $350 billion in August as both countries pushed Trump to reduce his planned tariffs from 25% to 15%. But these pledges remain uncertain, with Tokyo wanting benefits for its own companies and Seoul seeking a U.S. dollar swap line to avoid financial pressure.

Trump insists he will control how the money is used, allowing him to decide which U.S. sectors gain.

Meanwhile, Trump’s popularity among Hispanic adults has dropped. A new AP-NORC survey shows 25% now have a favorable view of him, down from 44% in January when he took office. Those saying the U.S. is headed in the wrong direction rose to 73% from 63% in March.

Trump also halted trade talks with Canada after a television ad criticized U.S. tariffs, calling it “egregious behavior.” Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney responded that he plans to expand trade outside the U.S. due to the tariff threat.

On domestic issues, Trump said he will delay sending federal agents to San Francisco following requests from business leaders. Mayor Daniel Lurie told him the city is seeing progress in reducing crime, reports UNB. 

White House schedule for Trump’s Asia trip:

— Friday 11 p.m. EDT: Departure from the U.S.

— Sunday: Arrival in Malaysia; meeting with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim; ASEAN working dinner.

— Monday: Flight to Tokyo.

— Tuesday: Meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.

— Wednesday: Flight to Busan; meeting with Korean President Lee Jae Myung; address at APEC CEO lunch; APEC leaders’ dinner.

— Thursday: Meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping; evening return to the U.S.