The U.S. is reportedly seeking a trade deal with Canada before an August 19 deadline, with negotiations progressing well. Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt is set to depart at the end of the month to focus on her children, though she will remain an outside advisor. Separately, a planned US-China 'Board of Investment' initiative has stalled, creating uncertainty ahead of a potential meeting between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Negotiations between the U.S. and Canada are reportedly progressing well, with both sides aiming to reach a trade agreement before the August 19 deadline, which would trigger new tariffs. Canadian officials are actively meeting with their U.S. counterparts to finalize a deal. In personnel news, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt will step down at the end of the month, as announced by President Donald Trump. Leavitt stated her decision is motivated by a desire to prioritize her children, and she will continue to serve as an outside advisor. On the international front, a planned US-China 'Board of Investment' initiative has reportedly stalled. This development introduces uncertainty regarding the initiative's potential launch, particularly as an anticipated meeting between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping approaches.