Trump’s Tariff Ultimatum to 12 Nations Set for Delivery: “Take It or Leave It”
Insiders at the White House are casting doubt on President Donald Trump’s aggressive tariff threats, describing them as more theatrical than substantive, according to a recent Politico report. With a 90-day deadline looming for imposing significant tariffs unless new trade deals are secured, the administration appears surprisingly relaxed about the timeline.
Sources told Politico that the deadline lacks real weight, with one insider calling it a “self-imposed landmark in this theatrical show.” The source added, “Trump knows tariffs are the most gripping part of his presidency. I doubt he’ll give that up easily. It’s all fake no real deadline.”
Also read: Trump Poised to Announce New Tariff Rates for Nations Starting Friday
Disarray Among U.S. Trade Negotiators
The trade talks, led by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, have been marked by confusion, Politico reports. The trio reportedly lacks clear authority, often pulling in conflicting directions. The result is a chaotic process with little tangible progress. Foreign delegations have arrived for negotiations only to leave empty-handed or unclear about U.S. demands. In some instances, countries that held talks were later publicly criticized by Trump on social media.
Trump’s inconsistent messaging has further muddled the situation. Recently, he suggested the 90-day tariff window could be adjusted, stating, “We could extend it, we could make it shorter. I’d like to make it shorter.” Another official offered a candid take: “You have wins. Take them. But it seems he enjoys the game too much to claim them.”
Also read:
Growing Skepticism Abroad and at Home
The lack of a coherent strategy has left foreign officials, lawmakers, and trade experts questioning the credibility of any potential deals with the Trump administration. Many now view the tariff threats as unpredictable leverage rather than a path to meaningful agreements, according to Politico. As the deadline approaches, the global trade community remains on edge, uncertain whether Trump’s tariff talk is a genuine policy push or just political theater.