Five takeaways from Trump’s first week as president-elect

Donald Trump's inaugural week as President-Elect of the United States has undoubtedly been a whirlwind of activity, leaving some in Washington and observers globally both stunned and intrigued. Trump's early actions and statements have thrown a spotlight on his priorities, hinting at the trajectory the next four years might take. Here are five key takeaways from Trump's first week as president-elect: ### 1. Unconventional Diplomatic Moves Trump has not waited for his inauguration to make his mark on the US's foreign policy landscape. In an unprecedented move, he accepted a congratulatory phone call from Tsai Ing-wen, the President of Taiwan, breaking with the United States' long-standing "One China" policy that refrains from recognizing Taiwan as a separate nation from China. This bold move has sparked an array of responses, from approval by those who see it as a strong stance against China to concerns about the potential diplomatic repercussions with one of the world's largest economic powers. ### 2. Shaping his Administration Trump's picks for key positions in his administration have indicated a clear direction in which he intends to steer the country. High-profile appointments such as Michael Flynn as National Security Adviser, Jeff Sessions as Attorney General, and Rex Tillerson for Secretary of State showcase Trump’s leaning towards individuals with strong, often controversial opinions and a tendency for action over diplomacy. These selections signal a shift towards a more assertive, possibly contentious domestic and foreign policy. ### 3. Policy Priorities From