China rejects Trump’s threat of extra 50% tariffs as his deadline looms – US politics live

Executive Orders to Bolster US Coal Industry Expected

President Donald Trump is set to sign executive orders on Tuesday aimed at providing a boost to the nation’s coal sector, according to sources familiar with the matter. These orders are part of Trump’s broader energy policy initiatives.

Trump, who campaigned on pledges to elevate US energy production, has consistently sought to dismantle a wide array of energy and environmental regulations since assuming office on January 20. The White House has confirmed that he is scheduled to sign energy-related directives at 3pm today.

Sources with knowledge of the planned event indicate that Trump intends to issue multiple executive orders. These orders will instruct the Interior and Energy Departments to undertake measures that actively support the coal industry. These sources have requested anonymity due to lack of authorization to speak publicly on the matter.

Moreover, these forthcoming actions are anticipated to encompass initiatives aimed at preserving coal-fired power plants currently facing the risk of closure, signaling a commitment to sustaining the coal industry’s infrastructure.

EU Still Seeks to Avert Trade War with US

Despite the Trump administration’s rejection of Brussels’ “zero for zero” proposal on industrial goods, the European Union remains committed to avoiding a trade war with the United States. This is according to an EU spokesperson who addressed reporters on Tuesday, emphasizing the EU’s diplomatic efforts.

White House trade advisor Peter Navarro stated on Monday that for any agreement to be reached, the European Union must decrease its non-tariff barriers. These barriers, according to Navarro, include those imposed by value-added taxes and food safety measures, indicating a point of contention in trade discussions.

The EU spokesperson clarified, “The situation is unchanged. Our objective is to prevent tariffs… and we are awaiting substantive engagement from our American counterparts.” This stance highlights the ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve trade disputes peacefully.

US and Iran Disagree on Nature of Upcoming Talks

President Donald Trump announced unexpectedly on Monday that the United States and Iran were preparing to initiate direct discussions regarding Tehran’s nuclear program. However, Iran’s foreign minister clarified that the talks, scheduled to take place in Oman, would be indirect, revealing a divergence in perspectives.

Adding to the tense atmosphere surrounding potential negotiations, Trump issued a stern warning that should the talks prove unsuccessful, “Iran is going to be in great danger.” This statement underscores the high stakes and volatile nature of US-Iran relations.

In recent weeks, Iran has resisted Trump’s demands for direct negotiations on its nuclear program, threatening retaliation if pressed. It appeared Iran was maintaining this position on Monday, despite Trump’s announcement.

“We’re having direct talks with Iran, and they’ve started. It’ll go on Saturday. We have a very significant meeting, and we’ll see the outcome,” Trump informed reporters in the Oval Office during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, indicating the US’s stated approach to the talks.

Musk’s Tariff Appeals to Trump Unsuccessful

Tesla CEO Elon Musk reportedly made direct, yet ultimately unsuccessful, appeals to US President Donald Trump over the past weekend to reverse recently implemented tariffs. This information comes from a Washington Post report on Monday, citing sources familiar with the interactions.

According to the report, this exchange marks the most prominent disagreement to date between the President and Musk. It follows Trump’s recent unveiling of a 10% baseline tariff on all imports to the US, alongside elevated duties on goods from numerous other countries. The tariff policy has sparked widespread debate across industries.

Neither the White House nor Musk immediately responded to requests for comments on this report, leaving the details of the interactions unconfirmed by official sources.

Musk advocated for the elimination of tariffs between the US and Europe during a virtual appearance at a congress in Florence, Italy, hosted by the right-wing League Party over the weekend. His stance reflects growing business concerns about the impact of tariffs on international trade.

Tesla has experienced a sharp decline in quarterly sales amidst public disapproval of Musk’s involvement with a new “Department of Government Efficiency.” The company’s stock price stood at $233.29 at Monday’s market close, a decrease of over 42% since the beginning of the year, indicative of market and consumer reactions to recent developments.

Musk has previously acknowledged that the impact of Trump’s auto tariffs on Tesla is “significant,” signaling concerns about the financial repercussions for his company.

Trump Aims to Expand Coal Use for Data Centers

President Donald Trump is reportedly seeking to broaden both the mining and consumption of coal within the United States. This initiative is aimed at providing power for the rapidly growing sector of data centers, according to a Bloomberg News report published Tuesday, which cited a senior White House official. This move is part of a broader strategy to reinvigorate the coal industry.

As outlined in an executive order expected to be signed by Trump on Tuesday afternoon, the government will initiate several measures designed to revitalize the coal industry, the report elaborated. The executive order is expected to detail specific actions to support coal producers and consumers.

Family Released After ICE Detention in “Border Czar” Hometown

A mother and her three children, previously taken into custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents during a sweep in the hometown of the Trump administration’s former “border czar,” Tom Homan, have been released. Their release follows days of public outcry from community leaders, advocates, and protestors who demanded their freedom. The case highlights the tension between immigration enforcement and community values.

Over the weekend, approximately one thousand protestors gathered outside Homan’s residence in a small New York village. They called for the release of the family, who had been detained the previous month. The family’s ordeal galvanized community action and drew national attention.

Jaime Cook, principal of the Sackets Harbor school district where the children were students, penned a letter to the community. In it, she urgently appealed for the students’ safe return, emphasizing the children’s integration and positive standing within the community.

Cook described the students as having “no ties to criminal activity” and affirmed that they are “valued in their classrooms.” Her words amplified the community’s sentiment and put a human face on the immigration debate.

“We are in shock,” the principal’s letter conveyed. “And it is that shared shock that has unified our community in demanding our students’ release.” This statement captures the local reaction and the sense of urgency that fueled the protests.

The family’s apprehension occurred during a March 27 raid at a large dairy farm located in the remote town. This town, situated in Jefferson County, in north-western New York state near the Canadian border on Lake Ontario, has a population of fewer than 1,500 residents. Reportedly, the primary target of the operation was a South African national accused of trafficking in child sexual abuse material. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents confirmed his apprehension. However, the scope of the raid expanded beyond the initial target.

In addition to the primary target, authorities separately detained the family, along with three other immigrants identified as lacking proper documentation. By March 30, the family had been transferred to the Karnes County immigration processing center, a privately operated detention facility situated in Texas, highlighting the complexities of immigration enforcement processes.

Defense Secretary Visits Panama Amid Canal Speculation

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth arrived in Panama on Monday for his first official visit to the nation. This visit occurs amidst ongoing questions and speculation surrounding President Donald Trump’s repeated assertions about reclaiming the Panama Canal, adding a layer of geopolitical interest to the trip.

During his visit this week, Secretary Hegseth is scheduled to engage with Panamanian officials, as well as defense leaders from other Central American countries. These defense leaders are convening in Panama City for a regional security conference, making Panama a focal point for security discussions in the region.

Drone Strikes on Mexican Cartels Under Consideration by Trump Administration

The Trump administration is reportedly exploring the possibility of employing drone strikes against drug cartels operating in Mexico. This action is being considered as a measure to combat drug trafficking across the southern border of the United States, as reported by NBC News on Tuesday. The potential escalation in tactics signals a more aggressive approach to border security.

NBC News cited six current and former US military, law enforcement, and intelligence officials who are knowledgeable about these deliberations, indicating the seriousness of discussions within national security circles.

Netanyahu Meets Trump at White House to Discuss Tariffs and Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Donald Trump convened at the White House on Monday, marking their second meeting since Trump’s return to the presidency. This encounter is noted as the first significant effort by a foreign head of state to negotiate terms following Trump’s recent sweeping tariff announcements the previous week. The meeting underscores the immediate global ramifications of US trade policy changes.

During public remarks alongside Trump in the Oval Office, Netanyahu conveyed Israel’s commitment to eliminating its trade deficit with the US. He told reporters, “We intend to achieve this very rapidly,” and further suggested that Israel could “serve as an example for numerous countries who should adopt similar measures,” highlighting the potential for bilateral trade agreements.

President Trump acknowledged a “productive discussion” between the two leaders. However, he remained noncommittal regarding any reduction in tariffs on Israeli goods. “Maybe not,” he stated, adding, “Let’s not overlook the substantial assistance we provide to Israel. We allocate $4 billion annually to Israel—that’s a considerable sum,” indicating the complexities of trade negotiations within broader geopolitical alliances.

Trump also addressed and dismissed reports suggesting a potential 90-day suspension of his tariff implementation. “That’s not under consideration,” he clarified to reporters. “Numerous nations are approaching us to negotiate agreements, and our aim is to establish equitable deals,” reaffirming his administration’s trade strategy and negotiation stance.

European Markets Show Signs of Recovery Following Global Sell-Off Triggered by US Tariffs

European stock markets registered gains on Tuesday, indicating early signs of a recovery from the severe global sell-off initiated by recent US trade tariffs. This rebound is seen as a tentative positive signal amidst ongoing economic uncertainty related to trade policies.

Stock markets in the UK and across the European Union moved into positive territory during early trading hours on Tuesday. This shift reflects a partial return of investor confidence following significant downturns in response to Donald Trump’s “liberation day” tariff announcements the previous Wednesday. The market response underscores the interconnectedness of global economies and investor sentiment.

London’s FTSE 100 index of leading shares rose by 106 points, a 1.4% increase, reaching 7811. In Frankfurt, Germany’s Dax index increased by 1.5%, while France’s CAC 40 index experienced a 1.4% rise. The pan-European Stoxx 600 index also climbed by 1.4%, demonstrating a broad-based recovery across major European markets.

On the FTSE, industrial sector companies Rolls-Royce and BAE Systems led the gains, recording increases of 5% and 4% respectively. They were followed by strong performances from mining, oil, and banking sectors, suggesting a diverse market recovery across various industries.

Market analysts suggest that investor optimism is cautiously returning, fueled by reports that US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will spearhead trade discussions with Tokyo. This development is interpreted as a signal that the Trump administration may be willing to engage in tariff negotiations, potentially mitigating further economic disruptions.

This news prompted a modest recovery in Asian markets overnight, with Japanese equities leading the rebound. Tokyo’s Nikkei index recovered by 5.6%, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index increased by 1.6% after experiencing its most significant drop since the 1997 Asian financial crisis on Monday. The Asian market reaction hints at a broader stabilization in global financial markets.

Good morning from our US politics live blog. We’re covering the day’s major political developments in real time.

Our top story: Donald Trump has threatened to escalate trade tensions with China by imposing an additional 50% tariff on Chinese imports beginning Wednesday. This measure is contingent on China retracting its retaliatory tariffs against the United States by Tuesday.

This announcement comes amidst ongoing turmoil in global markets. The markets have experienced significant declines for three consecutive days since Trump initiated a trade war last Wednesday by imposing tariffs on key US trading partners.

The initial action involved the White House’s imposition of a 34% tariff on Chinese goods. In response, Beijing implemented a 34% tariff on US imports, signaling a reciprocal escalation.

In a statement released on Truth Social on Monday morning, the former US president asserted that China had enacted retaliatory tariffs despite his explicit “warning.” He emphasized that any country retaliating against the US with additional tariffs would be “immediately met with new and substantially higher Tariffs, exceeding those initially established.”

“If China fails to withdraw its 34% tariff increase, which compounds their existing long-term trade imbalances, by the deadline of tomorrow, April 8th, 2025, the United States will impose FURTHER Tariffs on China at a rate of 50%, effective April 9th,” Trump declared.

“Furthermore, all discussions with China regarding their requests for meetings will be terminated!” he added emphatically. “Negotiations with other nations that have also requested meetings will commence without delay.” This indicates a potential realignment of US trade priorities.

The Chinese embassy in the US responded on Monday, stating firmly that China would not succumb to pressure or threats concerning the additional 50% tariffs. Liu Pengyu, an embassy spokesperson, told Agence France-Presse, “We have reiterated numerous times that applying pressure or resorting to threats is not the appropriate way to engage with China. China will resolutely safeguard its legitimate rights and interests,” conveying a defiant stance.

More US Political Updates:

• Trump on Iran and Gaza: Donald Trump addressed reporters following an Oval Office meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu earlier today. During the briefing, Trump suggested he might participate in “direct talks” with Iran as early as Saturday. Furthermore, he stated it “would be a good thing” for the United States to gain “controlling and owning” authority over the Gaza Strip. He also described European Union “rules and regulations” as “non-monetary trade barriers,” offering insight into his broader foreign policy perspectives.

• Iran Disputes “Direct Talks” Claim: Shortly after Trump’s meeting with Netanyahu concluded, Iranian officials and state media outlets contradicted Trump’s assertion about imminent “direct talks” with the US. They clarified that Iran understood the upcoming discussions would be indirect talks, facilitated by Omani mediators, presenting a differing account of planned diplomatic engagements.

• Supreme Court Backs Migrant Deportations: In a close 5-4 decision, the US Supreme Court has ruled to allow the Trump administration to continue deporting Venezuelan migrants. The ruling leverages an 18th-century wartime law to authorize these deportations, marking a significant development in immigration enforcement policy.

• Treasury to Negotiate with Japan: Following a morning phone conversation with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, President Trump instructed US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to initiate negotiations with the Japanese government. This directive demonstrates a proactive approach to reshaping trade relationships with key international partners.

• Democrats Warn of Economic Downturn: In public addresses this afternoon, Democratic leaders within both the House and Senate issued warnings about the potential economic repercussions of Trump’s tariffs. They cautioned that these tariffs are setting the stage for “a nationwide recession,” emphasizing the domestic economic risks of current trade policies.

• Market Fear Index Surges: After US stock markets opened this morning in bear market territory, the Cboe Volatility Index, commonly known as Wall Street’s “fear gauge,” surged to “crisis levels.” The index reached its highest point since the Covid-19 pandemic began, reflecting acute market anxiety and volatility.

• Canada Challenges US Auto Tariffs at WTO: Canada has officially submitted a request for dispute consultations with the World Trade Organization (WTO). This request challenges the US decision to impose a 25% duty on cars and car parts imported from Canada. The WTO confirmed this action today, highlighting international mechanisms being employed to counteract US trade measures.

• Mexico Seeks to Avoid US Retaliation: Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that Mexico is currently endeavoring to avoid retaliatory tariffs being imposed by the US. However, she indicated that Mexico is not definitively ruling out implementing such measures if necessary, suggesting a fluid and cautious response to US trade policies.

• Catholic Bishops Cease Federal Refugee Partnerships: The US Conference of Catholic Bishops is ending its half-century-long partnerships with the federal government. This decision impacts refugee and child services. The organization cited the “heartbreaking” and abrupt cessation of federal funding for refugee resettlement by the Trump administration as the reason for this significant change, illustrating the wide-ranging effects of policy shifts.

• CDC to Reconsider Fluoride Recommendation: Health Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr is set to direct the CDC to revise its recommendation regarding state-level water fluoridation. Specifically, the CDC will be instructed to stop recommending that states add fluoride to their drinking water, signaling a possible policy shift on public health measures related to water treatment.

• Trump Supports Senate Budget Proposal: Via social media, Trump voiced his support for the Senate’s proposed budget plan. His backing lends crucial support as House Speaker Mike Johnson prepares to bring the budget to a vote later this week. Despite Trump’s support, the budget’s passage in the House remains uncertain due to insufficient guaranteed votes, indicating ongoing fiscal policy challenges.