On February 23, 2026, President Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs in a "much more powerful and obnoxious way" after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down his previous broad tariff program.

 

Trump threatens 'more powerful and obnoxious' tariffs

On February 23, 2026, President Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs in a "much more powerful and obnoxious way" after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down his previous broad tariff program.

Following a 6-3 ruling that he had exceeded his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), Trump shifted to alternative legal authorities to maintain his trade agenda.

 

Key Developments

New 15% Global Tariff: On Saturday, February 21, Trump announced he would raise a temporary global tariff from 10% to 15% on imports from all countries under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974.

Legal Pivot: Trump claimed the Court "accidentally and unwittingly" gave him more power by confirming his ability to use other tariff laws and "licenses" with "legal certainty".

Targeting "Games": He warned that any country attempting to "play games" with the Supreme Court decision would be met with "much higher" and "worse" tariffs.

Retaliatory Licensing: In social media posts, Trump suggested he could use import licenses to do "absolutely 'terrible' things" to foreign countries, specifically those he believes are "ripping off" the U.S..

Global and Market Reaction

Trade Uncertainty: The European Union halted a scheduled vote on a trade deal with the U.S., while the UK sought "urgent clarity" on whether its previous 10% preferential rate remains valid.

Financial Impact: Global stock markets and the U.S. dollar declined on Monday as investors reacted to the renewed trade tensions.

CBP Action: Despite the threats, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) began de-activating the illegal IEEPA-related tariff codes effective February 24.