Lula’s approval ticks up in Brazil after Trump threatens tariffs, poll shows – it’s a pretty wild situation, all things considered. You see, it seems like Donald Trump has this uncanny ability, almost a superpower, to inadvertently boost the popularity of political figures in other countries. And that’s exactly what appears to be happening in Brazil right now.
The catalyst for this unexpected shift seems to have been a series of events, starting with some eyebrow-raising interactions between Trump and Eduardo Bolsonaro, the son of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. Apparently, Eduardo was coordinating with Trump to influence his father’s ongoing legal troubles, which are somewhat reminiscent of Trump’s own political battles.… Continue reading
Mexico plans stronger trade collaboration with Canada after Trump tariff threats, a move that seems like a natural response to the pressures of an unpredictable trade environment. The very idea of deepening ties between these two North American neighbors feels like a welcome development, especially in light of potential disruptions caused by trade policies originating south of the border. It’s about time both countries recognized their shared interests and worked towards a more robust economic partnership.
This push for stronger collaboration isn’t just about weathering the storm; it’s about proactively building a more resilient future. It is an acknowledgment that relying heavily on a single trading partner can be risky.… Continue reading
US trade talks with Indonesia, currently at nearly $40 billion in 2024, show growing US exports and imports. Senior Indonesian officials confirmed they are preparing a joint statement regarding tariffs, following Trump’s threat of a 32% tariff rate and similar letters sent to other trading partners. Trump has stated that talks with India are moving in a similar direction and that a trade deal with Vietnam is nearly complete. The implementation of these tariffs would raise the US effective average tariff rates, potentially making it the highest since 1933.
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Russia “didn’t care” about Trump’s weapons for Ukraine, tariff threats, an official says – well, that’s what the narrative seems to be. But let’s unpack that. The official’s assessment suggests a dismissive attitude, yet the subtext hints at something more complex. It’s not as simple as Russia shrugging off Trump’s actions. The reality is likely far more layered.
They certainly didn’t care about the weapons, did they? It appears the initial hesitation to supply Ukraine with the arms they desperately needed, a delay during Trump’s presidency, was a golden opportunity for Russia. This initial stalling completely hampered Ukraine’s defense, effectively crippling any chance for a successful counteroffensive into the region of Kursk.… Continue reading
Japan PM Ishiba’s call to reduce dependence on the United States is a significant development, especially given the backdrop of looming new tariffs. It seems like the winds of change are definitely blowing, with a growing sentiment that perhaps it’s time for Japan to lessen its reliance on the US, both economically and perhaps even strategically. This is a pretty bold move, considering the long and complex relationship these two nations have. It’s almost like a dance they’ve been doing for decades, and now, there’s a desire to change the steps.
The core of the issue boils down to a feeling that relying too heavily on one partner, particularly when that partner starts implementing trade barriers, can be detrimental.… Continue reading
In a recent announcement, U.S. President Donald Trump declared that the United States would impose “very severe tariffs” on Russia within 50 days if a deal to end the war in Ukraine is not reached. These “secondary tariffs,” potentially set at 100%, would target Russia’s trading partners, aiming to isolate Moscow from the global economy. Trump also stated that the U.S. would provide military aid to Ukraine, but the financial burden would be shouldered by NATO members. This marks a potential shift in Western sanctions policy, coinciding with discussions of peace and weapons production, while Trump also expressed disappointment with President Putin’s actions.
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President Trump has issued a stern warning to Moscow, announcing potential 100% secondary tariffs on countries trading with Russia if a ceasefire in Ukraine is not reached within 50 days. This ultimatum follows the administration’s recent decision to sell Patriot missiles to European allies, hinting that these arms may be transferred to Ukraine. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte welcomed the announcement and confirmed several countries are involved, while also directly addressing Putin regarding the urgency of negotiations. A White House official clarified that the tariffs will directly target Russia and impose secondary sanctions on those who purchase oil from Russia.
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In a press conference alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, President Trump announced the U.S. would impose “severe tariffs” on Russia, potentially up to 100%, if a peace deal in Ukraine wasn’t reached within 50 days. This announcement follows growing frustration over Russia’s stalled peace efforts and comes as Russia increases aerial strikes. Furthermore, the U.S. and NATO unveiled a plan where NATO will purchase advanced U.S. weaponry, including air defense systems, and deliver some to Ukraine. This plan, fully funded and coordinated by the alliance, aims to provide Ukraine with significant military equipment without endangering U.S. military readiness.
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The European Union warns that a 30% tariff on goods imported from the bloc by the United States would effectively halt trade. EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič expressed concern over the potential for “super-negative” effects on both sides of the Atlantic and emphasized the EU’s desire for a negotiated agreement with Washington. The EU is delaying countermeasures on US exports to allow for more negotiation, but is preparing to retaliate. European stocks fell on Monday following the new tariff threat.
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U.S. customs duties revenue exceeded $100 billion for the first time this fiscal year, largely due to increased tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. The Treasury Department reported $113 billion in customs-duty revenue year-to-date, accompanied by a $27 billion overall surplus in June, contrasting with a deficit from the previous year. These tariffs, aimed at boosting domestic production and addressing trade imbalances, have been applied to various trading partners, including China, Brazil, and Japan, although the fluctuating nature of these policies introduces uncertainty regarding future revenue. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent suggests the US could collect over $300 billion in tariffs by the end of the year.
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Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker