Supreme Court to Rule on Trump’s Tariffs; U.S. Possibly Reopening Syrian Embassy

On Feb 20, 2026

TL/DR –

The article discusses several important actions and plans from the Trump administration. These include a decision on tariffs, plans to possibly reopen the U.S embassy in Damascus, Syria which was shuttered in 2012 during the country’s civil war, and a scheduled meeting with President Xi Jinping in China. Other issues include imposing travel bans on three Chilean government officials for their alleged involvement in compromising telecommunications infrastructure, the filing of a resolution by Senator Tim Kaine to limit Trump’s ability to attack Iran, and a move to stock his administration with individuals who have promoted falsehoods about the 2020 election.

Friday saw a decision on tariffs imposed under an emergency powers law, including sweeping “reciprocal” tariffs on other countries. This is the first major piece of Trump’s agenda to come before the Supreme Court, shaped by Trump through the appointment of three conservative jurists.

The Republican president vocally considered this case vital, but it met opposition from various political stances. The Trump administration informed Congress about the potential reopening of the U.S. Embassy in Damascus, Syria.

A phased approach is planned to resume embassy operations, similar to the U.S. embassy reopening in Caracas, Venezuela. However, details regarding the Damascus embassy remains classified. In March, Trump will visit China to meet President Xi Jinping, with reciprocal visits later in the year.

Three Chilean officials received travel bans from the Trump administration on charges of compromising telecoms security. The State Department announced that these officials and their immediate families would face U.S. visa revocations and further restrictions.

The Trump administration is considered displeased with Chile’s outgoing government. The House Majority PAC, supporting House Democratic candidates, declared their intention to continue campaigning on tariff issues regardless of Supreme Court decisions.

Sen. Tim Kaine has filed a war powers resolution, requiring Trump to gain congressional approval before attacking Iran. This move aims to build political opposition against the potential attack. Trump has excluded some journalists from his breakfast meeting with U.S. governors for candid discussions.

Trump’s unwillingness to invite all governors to a White House meeting resulted in backlash and the withdrawal of some officials. Iran held military drills with Russia as tensions rise in the Middle East. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore will attend a business meeting at the White House despite previous tensions.

Trump has reportedly filled his entourage with people who promoted election falsehoods. His administration also focused investigations on the 2020 election, including the seizure of ballots from Fulton County, Georgia.

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