Faced with a major legal setback, Donald Trump has chosen to counterattack. Unhappy to see the Supreme Court invalidate part of his tariff strategy, the American president announced on Saturday an immediate increase in his new global tariff, from 10% to 15% .

A direct response to the Supreme Court

The tone has escalated on social media. Describing the highest court's decision as "ridiculous" and "extraordinarily un-American," Donald Trump justifies this new rate by citing a "thorough review" of Friday's ruling.

As a reminder, the Supreme Court ruled, by a majority of six justices out of nine, that the president could not invoke economic emergency to impose such tariffs. In response, the White House activated the maximum permitted tariff rate of 15%.

The details of the new tax

This decree, signed from the Oval Office, has specific characteristics:

1. Effective date: Expected to be February 24.
2. Duration: 150 days.
3. Targets: Partner countries with trade agreements (EU, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan).
4. Exemptions: The pharmaceutical sector and products circulating under the Mexico-Canada agreement (CUSMA) remain protected.

Europe's cautious but firm reaction

Europe is seeking to organize its defense against this unilateral decision.

1. In France: Emmanuel Macron welcomed the existence of "counter-powers" in the United States, advocating for a "logic of appeasement" and fair trade rules.
2. In Germany: Chancellor Friedrich Merz stressed the need for a common European response . Recalling that customs policy is an exclusive competence of the EU, he intends to consult with his allies before meeting with Donald Trump in Washington.