BREAKING NEWS: Karoline Leavitt Holds White House Press Briefing As Tariff  War Rocks Global Markets

On April 2, 2025, President Donald Trump declared “Liberation Day,” unveiling sweeping new tariffs — a 10% levy on all imports (excluding Canada and Mexico) and a sharp increase on Chinese goods, bringing their total tariff rate to 145%.

White House Reacts to Donald Trump's 'Responsibility' for Stock Market  Turmoil - Newsweek

The announcement sent global markets into chaos. After an initial rally, U.S. stocks plunged over 1,000 points, and shipping industries braced for major supply chain disruptions.

White House Fact-Checked on Live TV After Falsely Claiming Judge Who  Blocked Trump's Order Was Obama Appointee

In a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the move, saying it was aimed at correcting trade imbalances and protecting American industries from unfair practices.

While some view the pause in tariffs as a negotiation tactic, critics warn of long-term economic uncertainty and strained global trade relationships.