On February 12, 2025, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt held a press briefing in the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room.

She began by announcing President Trump’s phone calls with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The President reaffirmed his commitment to brokering a peace agreement to end the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.

Leavitt also shared news of the release of Marc Fogel, an American teacher who had been detained in Russia. This development was seen as a positive step in U.S.-Russia relations and an important milestone toward diplomacy and peace.

Additionally, the President signed an executive order banning the use of paper straws in federal agencies, arguing that they are ineffective and unpopular. On trade policy, he signed proclamations raising tariffs on steel and aluminum imports by 25% to protect national security and prioritize American workers.

Leavitt also highlighted the confirmation of Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence and urged the Senate to confirm the President’s other nominees swiftly.

Finally, she announced a large-scale deportation effort targeting undocumented immigrants with criminal records, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to enforcing immigration laws.