Donald Trump has once again ignited controversy with crude remarks at a Washington political dinner, claiming that world leaders are “kissing my ass” to avoid sweeping import duties he has imposed on foreign countries. The US president’s comments come after the introduction of super-high tariffs on imports, including a 104 percent duty on Chinese goods.
Speaking at the National Republican Congressional Committee dinner, Trump described his aggressive trade policy as a “war with the world,” before walking back the language, saying it is “not quite a war” because, in his words, “they all come here” to negotiate. He specifically cited Japan, saying that high-level officials from Tokyo were flying in to meet with him, calling them “tough negotiators.”
Trump claimed countries are desperate to avoid the tariffs and eager to secure deals with the US. “They are dying to make a deal. Please, please, sir, make a deal. I’ll do anything, sir,” he quoted unnamed foreign officials as saying.
Trump’s language and posture have raised eyebrows internationally and come at a moment of economic turbulence in the United States. The new tariffs triggered immediate reactions from financial markets. The S&P 500 index, a major benchmark for the US stock market, plunged below the key threshold of 5,000 points for the first time in a year on Tuesday. Financial analysts estimate that companies within the index have lost more than $5.8 trillion, approximately £4.6 trillion, in market value as a direct consequence.
| Tariff Impact Snapshot | Figure |
|---|---|
| Tariff on Chinese imports | 104 percent |
| Estimated US market losses | $5.8 trillion (£4.6 trillion) |
| S&P 500 drop | Below 5,000 points for first time in a year |
Critics argue Trump’s brash trade policies and rhetoric are not only damaging international relations but also destabilising the US economy. His approach to diplomacy, rooted in personal arrogance and public humiliation of allies, is increasingly out of step with the complex realities of global trade.
Trump has made economic nationalism a cornerstone of his presidency. However, the wider economic effects suggest a high cost for the image of strength he wishes to project. Analysts warn that while the tariffs may pressure some governments to negotiate, the strain on global markets and the backlash from key trading partners could hurt American jobs and investor confidence in the long term.
