This week in politics, former President Trump continues to be a central figure, impacting discussions ranging from domestic continuity of government to international relations and even sustainable aviation fuel regulations. Let's dive into some of the key events and discussions surrounding his name.
Continuity of Government
Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins has been selected as the designated survivor for President Trump's anticipated 2025 joint address to Congress. 
Collins, a former congressman, will be stationed at a secure, undisclosed location during the address, ensuring government continuity should a catastrophic event occur at the Capitol. This is a standard procedure, but the choice of Collins highlights his continued importance within the Trump administration.
Trump's Actions and Reactions
Trump has recently taken credit for what he describes as "swift and unrelenting" action. This claim coincided with the removal of Representative Al Green from the House chamber after Green disrupted a speech. The specifics of the "swift and unrelenting" action remain somewhat vague, but the incident underscores the continued political tensions surrounding Trump and his policies.
"It is important to have a relationship of alliance among equals." - Cacciari, La7
International Relations and Shifting Power Dynamics
Italian philosopher and political commentator Massimo Cacciari recently appeared on La7, an Italian television channel, to discuss the ongoing situation in Ukraine. He argued that the European Union should take a more assertive role as a mediator, either by fully supporting Ukraine militarily or by actively pursuing peace negotiations with Russia. 
Importantly, Cacciari also stated that the EU should remind Trump that the United States no longer holds the same level of global power it possessed 70 years ago. This comment reflects a growing sentiment that the international landscape is shifting, and the US must adapt to a more multi-polar world.
Cacciari's comments highlight a broader debate about the role of the US in global affairs and the need for other nations, particularly within the EU, to step up and take greater responsibility for international security and diplomacy.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel and EU Regulations
In other news, Neste, a Finnish company specializing in sustainable aviation fuel, is calling for more stringent EU regulations in the sector. Neste claims that airlines have not kept their promises to voluntarily demand sustainable aviation fuel, necessitating stronger regulatory measures to ensure wider adoption. 
While not directly related to Trump, this issue highlights the growing pressure on businesses and governments to address climate change and transition to more sustainable practices. It also shows how policy decisions made during Trump's presidency continue to have ripple effects across various sectors.
Whether it's the selection of a designated survivor, debates over international power dynamics, or the push for sustainable aviation, the echoes of the Trump era continue to resonate in today's political and economic landscape.