Washington, February 23 – In a bold statement on Monday, President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to global trade partners, asserting that he does not require fresh congressional approval to impose tariffs. ‘Countries that have looted America for decades must prepare for far higher tariffs,’ he declared on Truth Social.
This comes amid heightened uncertainty following a Supreme Court decision overturning tariffs imposed during his administration. The ruling prompted India to postpone its planned trade delegation visit to Washington, as negotiations hang in the balance.
Trump dismissed the court’s verdict as ‘ridiculous and poorly reasoned,’ emphasizing that presidential authority on tariffs was already enshrined in existing laws. ‘I don’t need to go back to Congress. The approval is already there in multiple forms,’ he wrote.
He specifically targeted nations he accuses of exploiting U.S. markets for years, vowing tariffs ‘much tougher than any recent agreement.’ The White House has not issued an official comment, but a senior official noted ongoing behind-the-scenes talks with all partners.
India’s decision to delay its delegation underscores the ripple effects. The group was set to discuss an interim trade pact that could ease punitive duties on Indian exports and boost U.S. imports significantly. Sources familiar with the plans say consultations between Indian and American officials led to the postponement, with no new date fixed until tariff policies clarify.
Trump’s aggressive trade rhetoric signals a potential escalation in his protectionist agenda. As markets watch closely, the coming weeks could redefine U.S. economic relations with key players like India, China, and the EU. The Supreme Court’s intervention has only fueled his determination to wield executive power decisively.