Washington (Agencies): US President Donald Trump has announced a 25% tariff on imported cars and auto parts, set to take effect on April 2. The move has sparked global backlash, with major trade partners including Canada, Mexico, Japan, and Germany expected to face severe economic disruptions. Experts warn of job losses, increased vehicle prices, and supply chain disruptions, as key components like engines and transmissions are also subject to the tariffs.
Domestically, the announcement rattled financial markets, leading to declines in automaker stocks and raising concerns over consumer affordability. Critics argue that the tariffs violate existing trade agreements like the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and could provoke retaliatory measures from affected nations.
Adding to the turmoil, a leaked Signal chat has exposed sensitive discussions among senior Trump administration officials regarding military plans in Yemen. The leak revealed operational details of planned airstrikes against Houthi targets, triggering security concerns and public outrage. The breach came to light when Jeffrey Goldberg, editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, was inadvertently added to the private chat, exposing high-level deliberations.
While the White House has attempted to downplay the incident, critics have condemned it as a severe national security lapse, with growing calls for resignations within the administration.
With escalating trade tensions and internal security missteps, the Trump administration faces intense scrutiny, both at home and on the global stage.