According to reporting by The Guardian, the move comes just days after the court ruled that Trump had overstepped his executive authority by imposing sweeping global tariffs under emergency powers. The judgment struck down a central pillar of the administration’s economic strategy, finding that the use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act did not legally justify broad import taxes on foreign goods.

In response, Trump has turned to an alternative legal mechanism in an apparent effort to bypass the ruling. The president is now invoking Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, which allows for the imposition of temporary tariffs of up to 15% on imports for a period not exceeding 150 days without congressional approval. This provision requires that tariffs be applied uniformly across trading partners and is intended to address what the law describes as “fundamental international payments problems.”

However, it remains unclear whether the legal documentation necessary to formally enact the new 15% tariff regime has been signed, raising fresh uncertainty among global markets and trading partners.

Trump reacted angrily to the court’s decision, reportedly launching a scathing attack on members of the bench and describing certain justices as a “disgrace” to the nation, as he vowed to pursue other legal avenues to sustain his protectionist trade policy.

European leaders swiftly voiced concern. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned that the move risked heightening economic instability, while French President Emmanuel Macron cautioned that escalating tariffs could damage global trade ties.

The head of the British Chambers of Commerce also warned that the policy could have a chilling effect on international trade, potentially raising costs for businesses and consumers alike.

The announcement underscores Trump’s determination to press ahead with his tariff-driven economic agenda, despite mounting legal and diplomatic opposition at home and abroad.