Trump Reports Big Progress in Japan Tariff Negotiations

President Donald Trump unexpectedly joined trade negotiations with Japanese officials in Washington, claiming 'big progress' was made toward resolving tariff disputes. The talks focused on the tariffs Trump has imposed on Japanese imports, including steep duties on cars, steel, and aluminum, which have contributed to market volatility and recession concerns. Both sides expressed a desire to reach an agreement swiftly, with Japan emphasizing the importance of continued investment in the U.S. economy and a 'win-win' approach. While specific details were scarce, Trump also raised issues such as Japan's contributions to U.S. military costs and broader trade fairness. The discussions come amid a 90-day pause on many of the new tariffs, as both countries seek to avoid escalating economic tensions. Despite optimism from some officials, the ongoing uncertainty continues to affect global financial markets.