WASHINGTON D.C. (Feb 24, 2026) — President Donald Trump issued a scathing warning to global trading partners on Monday, promising “much higher” and “obnoxious” tariffs for any country attempting to “play games” following the Supreme Court’s decision to strike down his emergency trade duties.
Trade War Escalation
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The Pivot: After the Supreme Court invalidated his tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), Trump shifted tactics. He now plans to use Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, raising duties to a 15% maximum starting Tuesday.
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New Threats: In a Truth Social post, Trump suggested the U.S. could impose new license fees on trading partners and launch “Section 301” unfair trade investigations to provide a fresh legal basis for duties.
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Markets Rattle: The Dow fell 1.34% on Monday as the renewed uncertainty sent shockwaves through global exchanges.
Global Resistance
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EU Freeze: In Brussels, the European Parliament postponed a critical vote on a pending U.S. trade deal. While the deal included exemptions for pharmaceuticals and aircraft parts, the new 15% blanket tariff has stalled negotiations.
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International Backlash: China has urged Washington to scrap the measures, while India has reportedly delayed scheduled trade talks.
Judicial Clash
Trump also took aim at the Supreme Court, specifically Chief Justice John Roberts and his own appointees, for checking his executive power. The President expressed further concern that the Court might soon rule against his administration’s efforts to restrict birthright citizenship.
