Trump Continues Asia Tour Amid North Korea Missile Tests, US Troop Deployment Legal Challenges

President Donald Trump's six-day Asia tour, including visits to the ASEAN Summit in Malaysia, the APEC Leaders' Meeting in South Korea, and bilateral talks with Japan's new prime minister, marked a significant moment for the U.S. to reaffirm its Indo-Pacific strategy amid great power tensions with China. ASEAN countries continue to balance relations between the U.S. and China, striving to maintain neutrality despite China's coercive actions and the bloc's internal divisions. During his visit to South Korea, Trump pursued substantial investment commitments, though a trade deal with South Korea remains uncertain as he seeks $350 billion in U.S. investments. The trip coincided with North Korea's missile tests, highlighting regional security challenges. Domestically, a federal appeals court is reconsidering a ruling related to Trump's deployment of National Guard troops in Portland, amid disputes over the necessity and conduct of federal forces there. Additionally, the White House reportedly urged the Navy to use live bombs rather than dummy explosives during a military demonstration for the Navy's 250th anniversary that Trump attended, emphasizing the president's desire for impactful displays.