Harvard and Trump administration resume talks to resolve ongoing feud

Harvard University and the Trump administration have resumed discussions to resolve a long-standing dispute that escalated into funding cuts, legal battles, and political tensions. The talks, which restarted this week at the White House, aim to find common ground after months of confrontation over federal funding, campus policies, and academic independence, according to a report by the New York Times.

During the meeting, Harvard officials presented a PowerPoint outlining recent actions on antisemitism, admissions, and viewpoint diversity. In response, White House representatives listed further steps they expect the university to take. A letter from the administration followed, detailing conditions for a possible agreement. Harvard has not yet commented on its response.

Sources close to the matter say the negotiations restarted after other academic leaders urged Harvard to reengage with the administration. The outreach also followed public remarks by Education Secretary Linda McMahon, who signaled readiness for talks. Although the terms of any potential deal remain unclear, both sides have indicated interest in finding a resolution.

Donald Trump posted on Truth Social that “very possible that a Deal will be announced over the next week or so.” However, two people familiar with the talks said a deal in the immediate future is unlikely.

Internally, Harvard officials are weighing the risks of continued conflict. According to those briefed on the discussions, university leaders fear that ongoing tension with the federal government could shrink Harvard’s influence and budget. Key concerns include funding cuts, visa restrictions on international students, and federal investigations.

One individual close to Harvard emphasised, “The university is not going to compromise its values or First Amendment rights.”

A possible agreement being explored could see restoration of a portion of the federal research funding withdrawn earlier this year, and a halt to legal actions. In exchange, Harvard may be asked to make stronger commitments on antisemitism, admissions reform, and ideological diversity.

The discussions mark a shift from April, when Harvard cut off talks after receiving a letter from the administration demanding wide-reaching changes. The letter proposed merit-based hiring and admissions, a halt to diversity programs, and ongoing oversight through 2028. Harvard rejected those terms, leading to lawsuits and public sparring.

Since then, the administration has continued to cut research funding and challenge Harvard’s ability to admit international students. Meanwhile, the university has faced increasing pressure from within to find a less confrontational path forward.

A potential deal may also serve as a model for other universities seeking to avoid similar conflicts. According to sources, multiple elite colleges are in private discussions with the Trump administration over funding and campus policies.

On social media, Trump described a possible agreement as “mindbogglingly HISTORIC” and “very good for our Country.” He later praised Harvard’s leadership for acting “extremely appropriately” during negotiations.

The legal case regarding Harvard’s funding cuts is ongoing, with a hearing scheduled for July 21 in Boston.