A U.S. federal appeals court has temporarily suspended the ruling that blocked tariffs imposed by Donald Trump, reigniting controversy over American trade policy and its impact on the global economy and international relations.

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Last Wednesday, the U.S. International Trade Court ruled that most tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump were illegal, arguing that the president overstepped his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). However, a federal appeals court has decided to temporarily suspend this ruling while reviewing the motions filed, thus reactivating the application of these controversial tariffs.

The legal controversy centers on the interpretation of the president’s authority to impose tariffs without Congressional approval. The lower court held that the Constitution grants Congress exclusive power to regulate foreign commerce and that the IEEPA does not provide unlimited authority to impose global tariffs. This decision defends the balance of powers and rejects unilateral economic measures that affect multiple countries and productive sectors.

The U.S. International Trade Court judicial ruling can be seen as a necessary check on Trump’s protectionist and aggressive policies, which have heightened trade tensions and negatively impacted developing economies.

The courts are right — President Trump’s tariffs are reckless and unlawful.

Congress should have the final say over most tariffs — that’s why I introduced bipartisan legislation to reassert congressional authority over tariffs. Jersey families shouldn’t pay the price for… https://t.co/rRdbnJj4bF

— Rep Josh Gottheimer (@RepJoshG) May 29, 2025

These tariffs, framed as protecting U.S. jobs, have actually contributed to escalating trade conflicts that harm workers and consumers worldwide, reflecting Washington’s imperialist logic to maintain economic hegemony.

Although the Trump administration has announced plans to appeal the decision, uncertainty remains over the future of these tariffs. The temporary reinstatement could prolong instability in international markets and complicate multilateral negotiations.

This situation underscores the need to strengthen regional integration and seek alternatives to U.S. economic dominance, promoting fair and sovereign trade that respects each nation’s particularities.

Beyond its immediate impact on U.S. trade policy, this court ruling symbolizes resistance against the neoliberal and protectionist policies that have marked the last decade and opens space to discuss alternative economic models prioritizing social justice and international cooperation.

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