Nations React to Trump Tariffs

President Donald Trump’s sweeping new tariffs—announced on April 2, 2025—have rattled the global economy, drawing immediate condemnation from key trading partners and sending markets into a tailspin. The U.S. imposed tariffs ranging from 20% to nearly 50% on imports from major economies including China, the EU, Japan, and South Korea. In response, China labeled the move as “bullying” and initiated retaliatory measures. The European Union promised “robust” countermeasures and is eyeing digital taxes on U.S. tech firms. While France urged firms to halt U.S. investment, allies like the UK and Japan favored diplomacy. Financial markets reacted sharply, with major global indices falling significantly. Analysts warn that the tariffs—some of the steepest since the early 20th century—could slow trade and fuel inflation, as companies pass the added costs to consumers. Trump, however, maintained optimism, calling the move a necessary correction to decades of what he views as unfair trade practices.

Trump Administration Says Schools Must Eliminate DEI Practices to Receive Funding

The Trump administration has issued a directive requiring all K-12 schools receiving federal funding to certify compliance with civil rights laws and eliminate any diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices that it deems discriminatory. Schools and states have 10 days to sign a “reminder of legal obligations” or risk losing crucial funding, including Title I grants. The Department of Education argues that some DEI initiatives favor certain racial groups, violating federal law and the Supreme Court’s 2023 affirmative action ruling. The certification warns schools they could be prosecuted under the False Claims Act if found in violation. Critics, including the American Federation of Teachers and parent organizations, say the policy overreaches federal authority and undermines local control, while legal challenges are already underway.

South Korea's President Ousted After Martial Law Move Deemed Illegal by Top Court

South Korea’s Constitutional Court has unanimously upheld the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, officially removing him from office following his controversial declaration of martial law in December 2024. The court ruled that Yoon’s justification—citing threats from “North Korean communist forces” and “anti-state forces”—did not meet the constitutional threshold for such drastic action. Furthermore, the deployment of troops to block parliamentary proceedings was found to be a violation of the law. With the decision finalized, a presidential election must be held within 60 days. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has resumed his role as acting president during the transition. Financial markets reacted swiftly, with the Kospi falling 1.66%, while the South Korean won strengthened. Yoon’s ruling People’s Power Party accepted the decision, while the opposition Democratic Party called it a "people’s victory."

Trump's Tariffs Target Global Trade, Sanctioned States Like Russia Avoid New Penalties

Amid a sweeping escalation in trade tensions, President Donald Trump imposed a 10% baseline tariff on most imports to the United States, alongside significantly higher rates for countries such as China, India, Japan, and European allies. Surprisingly, nations already heavily sanctioned—Russia, Belarus, Cuba, and North Korea—were not subjected to additional tariffs. The White House explained that these countries were excluded due to existing sanctions and minimal trade volumes with the U.S., especially following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Russia's exports to the U.S. have dropped drastically, from $36 billion in 2021 to just $3 billion in 2024. Trump hinted at possible future measures, including secondary tariffs on buyers of Russian oil, especially after recent criticisms from Russian President Vladimir Putin. Analysts warn that the broader tariff war could dampen global demand, potentially affecting oil prices—a key concern for Russia’s energy-dependent economy.