Trump Imposes Sweeping Tariffs on Multiple Nations

President Donald Trump has enacted sweeping new tariffs, including a 50% tariff on all Brazilian imports, citing political concerns over Brazil's trial of former President Jair Bolsonaro, which he calls a 'witch hunt.' Brazilian President Lula da Silva has condemned the move, defending the country's judicial independence and warning of potential retaliatory tariffs. In Southeast Asia, a new 20% tariff on Philippine exports aims to narrow the regional competitive gap, sparing key sectors like semiconductors but raising concerns among local business leaders about investment. The Philippines plans to send officials to Washington to negotiate, particularly over coconut exports. Trump also sent letters to leaders of Vietnam, Brunei, and Sri Lanka, detailing new tariffs of 20-30%. These measures have sparked global diplomatic tensions and market instability as countries consider their responses.