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Donald Trump has responded to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's retaliation to U.S. tariffs, warning that any retaliatory measures from Canada will trigger an immediate and equal increase in U.S. tariffs. The former president took to Truth Social to issue the threat, continuing the escalating trade tensions between the two nations.
What to know:
- Trudeau condemned the tariffs as an attack on Canada, saying they undermine a previous agreement with Trump on fentanyl production.
- Canada is preparing to take legal action at the WTO and is considering additional retaliatory measures.
- The prime minister warned that the tariffs would lead to job losses in the U.S. and higher prices for American consumers.
- He said Canada is united "across political lines" in its response and will "hit back hard."
- Mexico will announce specific countermeasures, including retaliatory tariffs, this Sunday.
Newsweek's live blog is closed.
Mar 04, 2025 at 06:02 PM EST
What countries does fentanyl come from?
Fentanyl is smuggled into the U.S. from Mexico and Canada. In 2024, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers seized more than 21,000 pounds of illicit fentanyl at the border with Mexico, while just 43 pounds were seized at the norther border with Canada.
A report from the Congressional Research Service in December 2024 said that most illicit fentanyl making its way into the U.S. was being made in Mexico using chemicals from China, which were often shipped legally without controls in place.
The Sinaloa and Jalisco cartels, recently designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) by the Trump administration, are some of the main manufacturers and distributors of the drug.
Fentanyl makes its way into the U.S. in various ways, but mostly through legal ports of entry along the southwest border. A study by the Cato Institute in 2024 found that 80 percent of individuals found with the drug at ports of entry between 2019 and 2024 were American citizens.
"Drug trafficking organizations hire U.S. citizens because they are guaranteed the right of entry into the United States and are subject to less scrutiny at ports than individuals without citizenship," David Bier, director of immigration studies at Cato, wrote in his analysis.
Felbab-Brown said that one way to help tackle this issue would be for the Mexican government and President Claudia Sheinbaum to allow more U.S. agents into the country to help with enforcement.
"The Sheinbaum administration has not been interested in doing that and has, in fact, been trying to prevent that, but it has not been clear if the Trump administration has been asking for it," Felbab-Brown said.
The Mexican government has been searching most cars headed for the U.S., she added, but little fentanyl has been discovered.
Mar 04, 2025 at 05:53 PM EST
Why were tariffs imposed?
"The government of Mexico has afforded safe havens for the cartels to engage in the manufacturing and transportation of dangerous narcotics, which collectively have led to the overdose deaths of hundreds of thousands of American victims," the White House said in a briefing note on Tuesday. "Canada-based drug trafficking organizations maintain robust 'super labs,' mostly in rural and dense areas in western Canada, some of which can produce 44 to 66 pounds of fentanyl weekly."
The Trump administration has said that both U.S. neighbors have failed to arrest traffickers, seize the drug and cooperate with U.S. agents on the matter. When it comes to China, the White House believes leaders there have not stepped up efforts to curtail the flow of so-called precursor chemicals used by manufacturers in Mexico and elsewhere.
Trump first threatened the move before his inauguration. Mexico responded to the threats and has publicized its actions to tackle drug and arms trafficking at the U.S. border. Canada also ramped up its measures.
Felbab-Brown told Newsweek that neither Canada's nor Mexico's efforts to increase enforcement actions around fentanyl were enough to dissuade Trump from imposing tariffs, "even though more fentanyl flows from the United States to Canada," she said.
Mar 04, 2025 at 05:52 PM EST
What is fentanyl and number of deaths
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More than a half-million Americans have died from opioid overdoses since 2012, the year fentanyl started arriving in the country. In 2023, 69 percent of all overdose deaths were linked to the drug, according to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
Fentanyl has been used as a painkiller and anesthetic since 1959 and is regulated in the U.S. by the DEA.
That has not stopped various fentanyl-related substances from being made illegally outside the country, and the pills often contain lethal doses of the drug. Other illegal drugs have also been found to have been laced with fentanyl, again causing overdose deaths when those taking substances have no idea what is mixed into them.
The DEA said that 2 milligrams of fentanyl can be a lethal dose, depending on a person's body size and tolerance. Some pills tested by the agency found as much as twice that amount.
Traffickers often move the substance by the kilogram, which can have the potential to kill a half-million people.
Mar 04, 2025 at 05:42 PM EST
How is fentanyl entering the US? Donald Trump’s tariffs target smugglers
President Donald Trump said his new tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China, which went into effect on Tuesday, were in part a result of inaction over the flow of fentanyl into the United States.
The 25 percent tariff on imports from Mexico and Canada, and a 20 percent hike on Chinese imports, came after a notable decline in overdose deaths from the drug over the past year.
"These tariffs are explicitly linked to fentanyl. We are yet to see whether that linkage is disingenuous or whether it is, in fact, real," Vanda Felbab-Brown, senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, told Newsweek on Tuesday.
The issue of fentanyl and its presence in the U.S. became a core part of the border security debate in the run-up to the 2024 presidential election, with Trump's message that the three key trading partners were not playing their part in cutting off manufacturers and suppliers.
Read in full from Dan Gooding on Newsweek.
Mar 04, 2025 at 05:36 PM EST
White House inundated with calls from Republicans criticizing tariffs: Report
White House chief of staff Susie Wiles and several other key members of the Trump administration have been receiving calls all day from Republican lawmakers complaining about the tariffs, CNN reports.
Some of the most vocal critics come from Congress members representing America's agriculture and manufacturing sectors.
A senior administration official told CNN that Donald Trump appears to be unbothered by the criticism and plans to distract from the tariffs backlash during his Congress address on Tuesday, by focusing on the executive orders he signed on focusing on cultural issues.
Mar 04, 2025 at 05:24 PM EST
How much electricity does the US import from Canada?
The United States imported approximately 27,220,531 megawatt hours (MWh) of electricity from Canada in 2024, according to the latest data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA).
However, this longstanding trade relationship is currently under strain due to escalating trade tensions. In a recent development, Ontario's Premier Doug Ford announced a 25 percent export tax on electricity sent to homes in three northern U.S. states as retaliation for U.S. tariffs, with the potential to shut down electricity imports altogether.
Recent developments in the electricity trade between the U.S. and Canada highlight its critical role not just in energy supply but also in international relations and economic stability.
Canada's retaliatory tariffs on electricity—which would affect 1.5 million homes in Minnesota, Michigan and New York, as reported by the Wall Street Journal—could escalate to a complete shutdown of these exports if further U.S. tariffs are implemented on April 2.
Read more from Claire Dickey on Newsweek.
Mar 04, 2025 at 05:02 PM EST
Map Shows How US and Canada’s Energy Grids Connect
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Ontario Premier Doug Ford said that he would cut off energy to the U.S. "with a smile on [his] face," if President Trump goes through with his tariffs threat.
Trump has cited fentanyl coming in from Canada as the reason for tariffs. He has also said that the measures are needed to put a stop to what he calls trade imbalances between the nations.
The president has long used tariffs and the threat of them as a tool in trade with foreign nations. If Ford follows through on his threatened response, some energy imports could cease to come in from Canada as well.
According to research from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), the energy trade between the U.S. and Canada is worth $95 billion annually, and makes up between 5 percent and 15 percent of GDP in several states.
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), electricity between the two nations is intertwined through "a complex and highly interconnected power system," and the major Canadian electricity companies have trading divisions and subsidiaries within the U.S.
Read in full from Sophie Clark on Newsweek.
Mar 04, 2025 at 04:52 PM EST
Major U.S. produce firm warns it may have to increase prices
Mission Produce, in California, has warned that if the tariffs last longer than ten days, their costs will be "substantially different" - something they may have to pass on to their customers.
CEO Steve Barnard said that Mission Produce grows and packages produce such as avocados and mangos all over the world, but a significant proportion of its avocados come from Mexico.
"If this thing lasts 10 days or more, our costs will be substantially different. We'll have to come to the table and figure something out," Barnard told Associated Press.
Mar 04, 2025 at 04:39 PM EST
Dow drops 1300 points in two days amid Trump trade war
The Dow Jones Industrial Average has dropped 1300 points over the last two days as U.S. President Donald Trump moved forward with tariffs against key trading partners, including Canada, Mexico and China, which are all hitting back.
On Tuesday, the benchmark index dropped 1.2 percent, while the Dow tumbled 670 points or 1.6 percent. The Nasdaq slipped 0.4%, despite a rebound in major tech stocks like Nvidia. The S&P 500 has erased its post-election gains.
Retailers Target and Best Buy saw their shares decline after warning of sales pressures and higher prices for consumers.
Mar 04, 2025 at 04:22 PM EST
Ontario ‘ripping up contract with Starlink’ over tariffs
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Ontario Premier Doug Ford has said his province is "ripping up" its agreement with SpaceX's Starlink to provide high-speed internet, after Trump imposed 25% tariffs on trade with Canada.
"We're ripping up Ontario's contract with Starlink. It's done. It's gone," Ford said at a Tuesday press conference.
SpaceX, which is owned by billionaire Trump ally Elon Musk, had been set to offer its internet service to 15,000 homes and businesses in Ontario as part of the deal.
Ford added that the Liquor Control Board of Ontario - the biggest alcohol buyer in the world - is also removing U.S. products from sale.
Mar 04, 2025 at 04:13 PM EST
Ontario Premier: ‘We need to make sure America feels the pain’
Ontario Premier Doug Ford has threatened to apply a 25% surcharge to the power his providence provides to the U.S. if the tariffs continue.
"We will not hesitate to shut off their power as well," Ford warned.
"We need to make sure America feels the pain," he said.
Ford added that the states that would be hardest hit are all ones that supported Trump in the past election.
Mar 04, 2025 at 03:59 PM EST
Trump’s order halts military aid to Ukraine, including approved weapons en route
Trump's recent order pausing U.S. military aid to Ukraine includes weapons and military assistance that had already been approved and were in transit to the country, according to a defense official.
While the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, declined to provide specific details about the weapons or the extent of the halted aid, the decision affects assistance previously approved under both presidential drawdown authority and the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI).
Some of the $500 million aid package approved in January, which included air defense missiles and ammunition, may have been impacted. It is currently unclear how much of that aid had already reached Ukraine or if contracts finalized under USAI during the Biden administration are also affected.
Mar 04, 2025 at 03:48 PM EST
Fox News’ exclusive interview with Zelenskyy tops ratings
Fox News Channel's Special Report with Bret Baier secured impressive viewership on Friday, February 28, following an exclusive interview with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The segment, marking Zelenskyy's first response to his meeting with Trump in the Oval Office, drew 6.2 million viewers and 775,000 in the 25-54 demo from 6-6:30 PM/ET. The interview peaked at 6.4 million viewers and 855,000 in the demo from 6-6:15 PM/ET, surpassing NBC's Nightly News and CBS's Evening News.
Special Report dominated television during the 6 PM hour, drawing 5.7 million viewers and 661,000 in the 25-54 demo. The show garnered 73% of the cable news share at that time. Additionally, it outperformed major broadcast programs such as CBS's NCIS Sydney, Fire Country, and S.W.A.T. on Friday night.
This interview marked the third world leader appearance on Special Report in one week, following conversations with French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. With an audience increase of 63% from its 2025 average, the program became the second highest-rated 6 PM/ET hour in Fox News history.
Mar 04, 2025 at 03:46 PM EST
What happens if Social Security collapses in 30 days as ex-head predicts
Recent developments have raised alarms about the stability of Social Security benefits. Significant budgetary measures targeting the Social Security Administration (SSA) could potentially disrupt benefit payments to millions of Americans.
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), under the guidance of Elon Musk, has initiated substantial budget cuts affecting the SSA. These measures include the closure of several SSA offices and the termination of numerous employees.
In a recent interview with CNBC, Martin O'Malley, who served as SSA Commissioner from December 2023 to November 2024, voiced concerns over the impact of DOGE's budgetary decisions on Social Security. He warned that the aggressive cuts could lead to a "system collapse" within 30 to 90 days, resulting in potential interruptions of benefit payments.
DOGE, established under President Donald Trump's administration, aims to streamline federal operations and reduce expenditures. Musk, appointed to spearhead this initiative, has implemented measures targeting the SSA, including office closures and workforce reductions.
Read in full from Robert Thorpe on Newsweek.
Mar 04, 2025 at 03:35 PM EST
Schumer criticizes Trump’s handling of the government and economy
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Senator Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, called out Trump for being "incapable of being straight" with the American people regarding the challenges he's created during his time in office, The Associated Press reported. Schumer's remarks were part of broader Democratic criticism of Trump's efforts to dismantle parts of the federal government and his controversial tariff policies, which have had economic repercussions.
Democrats have increasingly pointed out the negative impacts of Trump's early actions, pointing to affected citizens and the wider economic consequences. In the wake of the party's election losses, lawmakers, including Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) have been vocal about their dissatisfaction, noting that while voters wanted change, they did not expect the type of disruption brought by the Trump administration.
Mar 04, 2025 at 03:32 PM EST
Which stocks have been hardest hit by tariffs announcement?
Trading across multiple industries suffered Monday amid the news of Trump's tariffs.
Automakers saw the biggest drop as manufacturing relies on the entire North American supply chain, with Stellantis shares dropping by 10%; General Motors by nearly 3%, and American Axle by 2.7%.
Bank stocks also plummeted, with Citigroup suffering a 5.1% and Bank of America a 4.8% drop.
Retailers also took a hit with Ralph Lauren dropping by 2.9% and Williams-Sonoma by 1%.
Mar 04, 2025 at 03:26 PM EST
Trump has lunch with prominent news anchors
President Trump has hosted the traditional luncheon with prominent news anchors from mainstream media ahead of tonight's Congress address.
Those invited to the lunch at the White House included NBC's Lester Holt and ABC's David Muir.
Mar 04, 2025 at 03:16 PM EST
Peter Marocco to brief Congress on Trump administration’s foreign aid reorganization
Peter Marocco, the Trump administration official overseeing the dismantling of USAID, is set to brief members of Congress on Wednesday about the president's reorganization of U.S. foreign aid. Marocco will face both Republicans and Democrats on the House Foreign Affairs Committee following significant cuts to U.S. development and humanitarian efforts abroad.
Lawmakers, including Democrats and some Republicans, have voiced concerns, particularly over the potential loss of successful USAID programs that have helped combat Ebola and provided life-saving HIV/AIDS treatment in Africa. The move marks a sharp departure from decades of U.S. policy supporting foreign aid to stabilize countries and build alliances.
Mar 04, 2025 at 03:07 PM EST
Democratic lawmaker introduces bill to close trade loophole with China
A top Democrat on the House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, has introduced a bill to close a trade loophole with China.
The "de minimis" loophole allows companies to avert paying duties on imports worth $800 or less when shipping packages to customers in the U.S.
Last month, Donald Trump attempted to close the de minimis loophole, sparking concerns that consumers in the U.S. would have to wait significantly longer to receive their purchases from overseas and they would have to pay more for them.
However, just a few days later, the Trump administration paused de minimis as packages rapidly piled up at customs.
On Tuesday, Rep. Linda Sanchez introduced a bill to end the exception to help "level the playing field for American workers, keep families safe from fentanyl, and prevent other dangerous products from entering our communities undetected."
Mar 04, 2025 at 03:03 PM EST
John Thune expresses support for Trump’s tariffs, sees them as a step toward reducing fentanyl flow
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South Dakota Senator John Thune acknowledged the importance of trade to his state but expressed willingness to support President Trump's tariffs, giving the administration latitude to achieve its goal of reducing fentanyl trafficking at U.S. borders.
Thune recognized that he holds a different stance on tariffs than some colleagues and even the White House, but stressed that the ultimate objective is to address the issue of fentanyl flow.
Mar 04, 2025 at 03:02 PM EST
Senate majority leader ‘willing’ to give tariffs a chance
Senate majority leader John Thune said Tuesday that he is willing to give Trump's 25% tariffs a chance, if they can achieve Trump's stated goal of reducing the flow of fentanyl.
"What I'm willing to do is give the president some latitude to try and accomplish the objective he seeks to get done here," Thune said.
Thune admitted he had a difference stance on the tariffs than many of his Senate colleagues, but said "at the end of the day, it's really about, trying to achieve the desired result."
Mar 04, 2025 at 02:52 PM EST
Ontario retaliates against U.S. tariffs with ban on U.S. deals and Starlink contract cancellation
Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced a series of retaliatory measures against U.S. tariffs on Tuesday, including banning American companies from local procurement deals and "ripping up" a contract with SpaceX's Starlink.
The agreement, which would have provided high-speed internet to 15,000 homes and businesses, is now canceled. Ford also threatened a 25% surcharge on electricity supplied to the U.S. and warned that power could be shut off if the tariffs continue.
Additionally, Ontario's Liquor Control Board is removing U.S. products from its shelves in response to the trade dispute.
Mar 04, 2025 at 02:44 PM EST
US and Ukraine mineral deal set for Tuesday after Trump-Zelensky spat
President Donald Trump's administration and Ukraine intend to sign the highly scrutinized minerals deal four sources familiar with the matter told Reuters on Tuesday.
The reported signing follows a contentious Oval Office meeting on Friday, during which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy was dismissed from the White House.
Trump has informed his advisers that he wishes to announce the agreement during his address to Congress on Tuesday evening, three of the sources told Reuters, though they cautioned that the deal remains unsigned, and the situation could still change.
Mar 04, 2025 at 02:42 PM EST
Polaris says it may impose surcharge in U.S. after tariffs
Polaris, which makes off-road vehicles, is mulling a surcharge on some vehicle sold in the U.S. after Trump's tariffs.
The U.S. company's largest factory, which produces around a third of its product, is based in Monterrey, Mexico.
Under the tariffs, Polaris would be hit by the 25% tariffs when moving the vehicles into the U.S. for sale.
Chief Executive Mike Speetzen told an investor conference Tuesday that they are discussing the preliminary numbers for a surcharge which they could impose on vehicles, although he hoped to avoid it if the tariffs were lifted soon, WSJ reports.
Mar 04, 2025 at 02:39 PM EST
Gas prices in Northeast could rise 40 cents per gallon after new tariff
Gas prices in the Northeast may increase by as much as 40 cents per gallon by mid-March due to a new 10 percent tariff on energy imports from Canada that took effect today, according to Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, per The New York Times.
The region relies heavily on fuel from a Canadian refinery near the Maine border, making it particularly vulnerable to price hikes. Meanwhile, consumers in the Midwest, where refineries depend on Canadian oil, could see a smaller increase of 5 to 20 cents per gallon, De Haan said.
Mar 04, 2025 at 02:28 PM EST
‘Next trip to supermarket will be uncomfortable,’ warns expert over tariffs
An economics expert has warned that the next trip to the grocery store for most Americans is going to be a "whole lot more uncomfortable" due to the tariffs.
Justin Wolfers, Professor of Economics and Public Policy at the University of Michigan, told CNN that the tariffs were the biggest tax hike the United States have seen since 1993.
Wolfers warned that consumers could face a double whammy of price increases; from the higher prices of imported goods, and also from American companies raising prices due to the lack of competition.
"When there is less competition from abroad, it's also the case that American companies... will hike their prices. So it will be higher prices all around," he said.
"That next trip to the supermarket is going to be a whole lot more uncomfortable now that those tariffs are here."
Mar 04, 2025 at 02:24 PM EST
Lutnick: Tariffs could be lifted if countries curb fentanyl flow
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U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick said Tuesday that tariffs imposed on Canada, Mexico, and China could be lifted if those nations demonstrate a reduction in fentanyl trafficking and fatal overdoses in the U.S.
Speaking on CNBC, Lutnick argued there has not been a "statistically relevant reduction" in overdose deaths, despite preliminary data from the CDC showing fentanyl-related deaths have sharply declined. Between September 2023 and September 2024, fentanyl-related overdoses dropped by 30%, with overall drug overdoses falling nearly 24%.
Despite this, former President Donald Trump has claimed without evidence that fentanyl deaths are being undercounted, suggesting the real toll is much higher. Experts attribute the decline to public health efforts, including increased access to naloxone and addiction treatments.
Mar 04, 2025 at 02:13 PM EST
Chair of federal employee review board can stay, judge rules
The chair of a key federal agency reviewing employee firings can stay in her role, a judge ruled Tuesday, overturning Trump's attempt to remove her.
District Judge Rudolph Contreras ruled that Cathy Harris, chair of the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB), cannot be fired without cause, as required by law. The board, which reviews federal employee terminations, has become crucial as the Trump administration moves forward with mass government layoffs.
Contreras found that Trump's effort to remove Harris was unlawful, as officials did not cite cause for termination. Harris, a Biden appointee, will serve until her term expires in 2028 unless removed for inefficiency, neglect of duty, or malfeasance.
The decision could lead to an appeal from the Justice Department, with the case potentially heading to the Supreme Court. If Harris were removed, the MSPB would lose its quorum, delaying rulings on the surge of termination cases amid Trump's layoffs.
Mar 04, 2025 at 02:11 PM EST
Items likely to rise in price next week due to tariffs
Now that President Donald Trump's tariffs have gone into effect on Mexican and Canadian imports, shoppers are likely to feel the hit to their wallets, Target's CEO Brian Cornell said Tuesday.
Since Target relies on Mexican produce during the winter, Target CEO Cornell said shoppers should expect higher prices on fruits and vegetables as early as this week.
"Those are categories where we'll try to protect pricing, but the consumer will likely see price increases over the next couple of days," Cornell told CNBC. "If there's a 25 percent tariff, those prices will go up."
Fruits and vegetables could be the first place consumers see higher prices, specifically the following:
- strawberries
- avocados
- bananas
Mar 04, 2025 at 02:03 PM EST
List of stores to raise prices because of Donald Trump’s tariffs
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Major U.S. retailers including Target and Best Buy are warning consumers of imminent price increases across a range of products. This comes in response to the new tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump on goods from China, Canada and Mexico.
These measures, aimed at protecting U.S. industries, are likely to impact consumers nationwide—potentially seeing a rise in prices for everything from electronics to everyday groceries.
The imposition of tariffs comes as a controversial step that could potentially slow consumer spending and increase inflation, adding pressure to an already delicate economic recovery.
Retail giants are indicating that these costs may inevitably be passed down to consumers, with price hikes expected in essential and discretionary goods alike.
Twenty-five percent tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico and an upped 20 percent tariff on imports from China went into effect around midnight on Tuesday.
The retail landscape is bracing for the effects of these changes, which could reshape shopping behavior and possibly consumer loyalty as prices climb.
Read in full from Claire Dickey on Newsweek.
Mar 04, 2025 at 01:00 PM EST
Trump says that tariffs will increase in the U.S. if Canada implements retaliatory tariffs
Trump posted on Truth Social that any retaliatory tariffs from Canada would be met with an equal increase in U.S. tariffs.
Mar 04, 2025 at 12:54 PM EST
Elon Musk to brief House Republicans on government efficiency efforts
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Elon Musk is set to meet with House Republicans in a closed-door session at the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday to discuss the "ongoing work" of the Department of Government Efficiency, according to a source who received an invitation.
The briefing is scheduled to take place at 7 p.m. ET. Details on the topics Musk will cover remain unclear, but the meeting signals his continued involvement in government reform discussions.
Mar 04, 2025 at 12:43 PM EST
‘Possibility’ Donald Trump is a ‘Russian asset’ floated by UK lawmaker
U.K. Member of Parliament Graham Stuart has floated the idea that it is a "possibility" that President Donald Trump "is a Russian asset," in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Newsweek reached out to the White House for comment via email outside of business hours.
Newsweek also reached out to the U.K.'s Conservative Party for comment via a form on their website.
The allegation that Trump is a Russian asset could increase tensions between the U.S. and Europe, formerly close allies whose relationship has fractured due to conflict over how to end the Russia-Ukraine war.
Read the full story by Maya Mehrara on Newsweek.
Mar 04, 2025 at 12:31 PM EST
State Department reinstates designation for Yemen’s Iran-backed group
The State Department has officially reinstated the designation for Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi group, fulfilling an order announced by President Donald Trump shortly after taking office in January.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the move on Tuesday, stating that the designation—which includes sanctions and penalties for anyone providing "material support" to the group—has been restored.
Trump's first administration had originally imposed the designation in its final days, but it was later revoked by the Biden administration over concerns that it would worsen the humanitarian crisis in Yemen.
Mar 04, 2025 at 12:22 PM EST
Canada imposes 25% tariffs on $155 billion of U.S. goods
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Tuesday that Canada will implement 25% tariffs on $155 billion worth of American imports in response to new U.S. trade measures.
Speaking from Ottawa, Trudeau condemned the tariffs imposed by the U.S. as unjustified, calling them an attack on Canada, a key ally. He criticized Washington's approach, contrasting it with efforts to engage with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
"Canadians are reasonable, and we are polite," he said. "But we will not back down from a fight. Not when our country — and the wellbeing of everyone in it — is at stake."
Mar 04, 2025 at 12:13 PM EST
Canada to roll out tariffs over 21 days in response to U.S. trade war
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that Canada's retaliatory tariffs will be implemented over the next 21 days in response to U.S. trade measures.
"Today the United States launched a trade war against Canada, their closest partner and ally, their closest friend," Trudeau said.
He criticized the Trump administration's approach, contrasting it with its stance toward Russia. "At the same time, they are talking about working positively with Russia, appeasing Vladimir Putin, a lying, murderous dictator. Make that make sense," he said.
Mar 04, 2025 at 11:58 AM EST
Whitaker says NATO allies can and will do more
Former acting Attorney General Matt Whitaker spoke positively about NATO during his Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing Tuesday, distancing himself from Donald Trump and Elon Musk's skepticism of the alliance.
Whitaker emphasized that a key part of his role would be pushing NATO members to meet Trump's demand to invest at least 5% of their GDP in defense.
"I have no concern that our European allies and Canada can do more and want to do more," Whitaker said. "I fully expect they will do what's necessary to continue to make NATO the strongest alliance ever in the history of the planet."
Mar 04, 2025 at 11:40 AM EST
‘Trumpcession’ talk surges as US economy could be rapidly shrinking
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Fears of a potential recession under President Donald Trump, dubbed a "Trumpcession," are mounting as consumer confidence dips and economic concerns grow amid steep tariffs and persistent inflation.
Trump promised to bring down prices "on day one," so any economic downturn as a result of his policies could have major political ramifications for the president, as well as financial consequences for Americans.
Job losses, stock market declines, and lower consumer confidence could hurt businesses and increase federal deficits.
Historically, recessions have harmed incumbent presidents, as seen in 1992 and 2008. A recession could weaken global trade and reshape public perception of Trump's leadership, giving Democrats a shot at victory in the 2026 midterms and 2028 presidential race.
Read the full story by Daniel Orton on Newsweek.
Mar 04, 2025 at 11:28 AM EST
Zelensky says meeting with Trump ‘did not go as planned’ but Ukraine ready to negotiate
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed regret over his recent Oval Office meeting with Trump, describing it as not going the way it was intended.
Zelensky reiterated Ukraine's commitment to peace, stressing that his country is ready to negotiate and end the ongoing war. He emphasized that no one desires peace more than Ukrainians and called for constructive future cooperation with the U.S.
Zelensky also revealed that a deal regarding Ukraine's critical minerals, initially set to be signed during the meeting, was delayed due to the unfortunate interaction. He expressed gratitude for the U.S.'s previous support, particularly the Javelin missile aid.
Mar 04, 2025 at 11:15 AM EST
Mike Johnson says he won’t tear up Trump’s speech like Pelosi did
House Speaker Mike Johnson has made it clear that he won't follow the example set by former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who famously ripped up Trump's speech during his first term.
Instead, Johnson expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming address, saying he'd even like to "frame it in gilded gold." The Republican speaker emphasized that there's much to celebrate and is looking forward to the speech with optimism.
Mar 04, 2025 at 10:57 AM EST
House Democrats divided over attendance at Trump’s speech
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House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries has urged colleagues to maintain a strong presence during Trump's upcoming speech, stressing the importance of a "strong, determined and dignified Democratic presence" in the chamber. In a letter to fellow Democrats, Jeffries asserted that the House belongs to the American people and called for representatives to stand firm.
However, some Democrats, including Rep. Gerry Connolly of Virginia, have opted to skip the address. Connolly, who has never missed a presidential speech, cited the current challenges faced by his constituents and described the situation as requiring more than mere attendance. "These are not normal times," Connolly remarked, criticizing Trump's actions as "unleashing chaos and cruelty."
Mar 04, 2025 at 10:45 AM EST
US agencies consider halting contracts with Columbia over protests
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The Education Department and Health and Human Services are reviewing $51 million in contracts with Columbia University and $5 billion in federal grants after protests at the institution regarding the Israel-Hamas War.
Trump has threatened to stop federal funding for schools that allow "illegal protests," adding that protestors could face imprisonment or deportation.
In response, Columbia stated that it is working with the administration to address antisemitism concerns. Education Secretary Linda McMahon criticized the university for allegedly failing to protect Jewish students and questioned its eligibility for federal business contracts.
Mar 04, 2025 at 10:26 AM EST
Trump to address Congress with focus on achievements and priorities
Ahead of Trump's address to a joint session of Congress Tuesday evening, a diverse group of guests, including a teenage girl bullied with AI-generated deepfakes, the family of a firefighter killed at a Trump rally, and the relatives of slain student Laken Riley, will be present. These guests represent key administration policies and accomplishments.
The White House has said that the speech will highlight Trump's achievements during his first six weeks in office, along with a preview of upcoming priorities. The theme, "the renewal of the American dream," will touch on issues ranging from border security to economic growth, with a focus on executive actions.
Mar 04, 2025 at 10:15 AM EST
Vance defends U.S.-Ukraine minerals pact as stronger security guarantee
In an interview with Fox News' Sean Hannity, Vice President JD Vance argued that a pact providing the U.S. access to Ukraine's critical minerals offers a stronger security guarantee than sending troops to the region. He stated that this deal would provide "real security" and economic benefits, noting it would help prevent future Russian aggression.
Vance's comments came just hours before a White House official confirmed that President Trump had ordered a "pause" in U.S. military assistance to Ukraine, pressuring Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to pursue peace negotiations with Russia.
Mar 04, 2025 at 10:02 AM EST
Trump DOJ lawyer’s ’embarrassing’ answer sparks court laughter: Report
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A federal courtroom burst into laughter after a Department of Justice (DOJ) lawyer told a judge he didn't know if the Trump administration has a policy of protecting consumer rights.
President Donald Trump wants to introduce huge cuts at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), a federal agency tasked with protecting the public from financial fraud.
The DOJ's confusion in court illustrates the rapid way the Trump administration is dismantling major parts of the federal government, leaving its own administration unsure of the ultimate outcome.
Newsweek sought email comment on Tuesday from the DOJ and the CFPB.
Read the full story by Sean O'Driscoll on Newsweek.
Mar 04, 2025 at 09:45 AM EST
President Trump’s tariff claim contradicted by businesses facing price hikes
Trump has claimed that U.S. consumers will not bear the burden of tariffs through higher prices, calling it "a myth." However, businesses involved in cross-border trade with Mexico are already seeing price increases.
One Arizona distributor, handling 5 million boxes of Mexican produce annually, stated that without the tariff adjustments, perishable items like tomatoes and vegetables could be left unsold in fields or stuck in warehouses.
Jaime Chamberlain, an industry expert, predicts that such supply shortages will lead to higher prices for U.S. consumers.
Mar 04, 2025 at 09:30 AM EST
Canada eyeing NATO ally’s nukes to deter Trump ‘threat’: Candidate
A politician vying to replace Justin Trudeau as Canada's next leader has suggested forming a closer alliance with Britain and France as the NATO nations possess nuclear weapons, which could help safeguard the Canadians against potential threats posed by President Donald Trump.
Trump has repeatedly said that the United States should annex Canada and absorb the country as the 51st state. Officials have raised alarm bells about the president's threats, saying they undermine Canada's sovereignty. Trudeau has rejected the possibility of his country becoming part of the U.S.
Chrystia Freeland, former deputy prime minister under Trudeau, warned that Trump poses a direct "threat" to Canada's sovereignty by saying that the country could potentially become the 51st U.S. state.
Trump has said that Canada is "not viable as a country" without U.S. trade.
Freeland proposed forming stronger defense ties with France and Britain, as their nuclear arsenals could aid Canada "at a time when the United States can pose a threat."
"I would be working urgently with those partners to establish a closer security relationship," the former finance minister said during the final Liberal Party leadership debate last week, U.K. newspaper The Telegraph reported.
Trump "wants to turn Canada into the 51st state, and it's no joke," Freeland said.
"That is why he is supporting [Russian President] Vladimir Putin's criminal attempt to redraw Ukraine's borders," she added. "Trump wants to redraw our borders, too."
Canada's Liberal Party has seen a recent resurgence in the polls, surpassing the Conservatives for the first time since 2021. Party members are set to elect a new leader on March 9, after which Trudeau is expected to step down.
Britain's King Charles III, the head of state of Canada, which is a Commonwealth nation, welcomed Trudeau on Monday for talks, although it wasn't clear if the pair discussed Trump's annexation comments.
Read the full story by Isabel van Brugen on Newsweek.
Mar 04, 2025 at 09:19 AM EST
Mexico rejects Trump’s statement, vows to defend sovereignty
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Mexico's president, Claudia Sheinbaum, opened her morning news conference by strongly rejecting Trump's recent statement regarding Mexico, calling it "offensive, defamatory, and without substance."
Sheinbaum stressed that her government has been actively addressing Trump's concerns on drug trafficking and migration, including cooperating on the extradition of cartel leaders.
She pointed out that both countries must take responsibility for their own issues, citing the U.S. opioid crisis as a major concern.
Sheinbaum also announced that Mexico would reveal countermeasures, including retaliatory tariffs, on Sunday. She concluded her remarks by stressing Mexico's commitment to its sovereignty and urging calm in the face of external pressures.
Mar 04, 2025 at 09:07 AM EST
Donald Trump’s approval ratings before first major address to Congress
President Donald Trump is receiving a mix of net negative and positive approval ratings ahead of the Republican's first major speech to Congress of his second term, according to polls.
Newsweek has contacted the White House for comment via email.
Trump's first joint congressional address of his second presidency comes after weeks of his administration carrying out an agenda that includes imposing tariffs on imports, cutting federal government spending and seeking to end conflicts in Europe and the Middle East.
Polls suggest the American public is divided on Trump's job performance during his second term.
Trump's average approval rating is slightly positive as of Tuesday morning, with 47.8 percent saying they approve of the president and 47.7 percent saying they disapprove as of Monday, according to 538's live polling tracker.
Ahead of Trump's address, a Marist Poll survey of 1,694 adults found that 49 percent disapprove of Trump's job performance, while 45 percent approve.
The polling company noted that opinions on Trump remained strong. More than a third (36 percent) said they "strongly" approve of him, while 44 percent said they "strongly" disapprove.
The Marist poll was conducted February 24-26 and has a margin of error of plus or minus 2.8 percentage points.
Read the full story by Ewan Palmer on Newsweek.
Mar 04, 2025 at 08:53 AM EST
China retaliates with tariffs, bringing U.S.-China trade war closer
China swiftly responded on Tuesday to fresh U.S. tariffs, imposing hikes on $21 billion worth of American agricultural and food products. This move escalates the trade conflict between the world's top two economies, bringing them closer to a full-scale trade war. Beijing also implemented export and investment restrictions on 25 U.S. firms, citing national security concerns, though it avoided targeting well-known American companies this time.
The latest tariffs, which come as a 10% U.S. tariff on China took effect, raise the cumulative levy to 20%. China has denounced the U.S. tariffs as "blackmail" and emphasized its strict anti-drug policies, as the tariffs are largely a response to drug flows. Despite the tensions, analysts suggest that China might still seek to negotiate, as its tariff increases remain below 20%, leaving room for further discussions.
In retaliation, China added new duties on key U.S. agricultural exports, including soybeans, pork, and wheat, starting March 10. This new round of tariffs affects approximately 15% of U.S. exports to China. The retaliatory measures are seen as both a warning and an effort to curb the impact of the U.S. actions on its economy, with a potential shift in global supply chains as companies look for alternatives to China.
Mar 04, 2025 at 08:39 AM EST
Target warns tariffs could impact recovery as consumer spending weakens
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Target expressed concerns on Tuesday that new tariffs could hinder its recovery efforts following a difficult 2024.
The U.S. retailer, which imports a significant portion of its products, could face further challenges if tariffs drive up prices, potentially causing consumers to scale back spending.
CEO Jim Lee noted that sales in February had already dropped due to falling consumer confidence, and the uncertainty surrounding the economy could add more pressure on the company's performance in the near future.
Mar 04, 2025 at 08:27 AM EST
Trump to focus on tariffs and national agenda in joint address
Jason Miller, senior adviser to Trump, announced that the president will highlight tariffs during his upcoming speech to a joint session of Congress. Miller stressed that Trump plans to "lean into" the issue, discussing how increasing tariffs could help reduce the nation's trade deficits, particularly with countries like Canada, Mexico, and China, CNN reports. Trump is also expected to provide an overview of his accomplishments and outline his future plans for the country.
Miller noted that the president would "level set" with the American people about the nation's current status, reflecting on his past actions and future goals. He mentioned upcoming priorities like passing a tax bill, securing permanent border fixes, and addressing competition with China, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence.
Additionally, Miller revealed Trump's stance on the Ukraine conflict, stating that Trump is pressing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to negotiate a peace deal to end the war.
Mar 04, 2025 at 08:13 AM EST
How to watch Donald Trump’s joint address to US Congress
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President Donald Trump is set to address a joint session of Congress on Tuesday, marking the first time he will speak to both chambers since returning to the White House.
House Speaker Mike Johnson in January invited Trump to address Congress to "share his America First vision for our future." Presidents typically address Congress early in their terms to set out their agenda for their administrations.
In his letter, Johnson wrote: "America's Golden Age has begun. Thanks to your strong leadership and bold action in the first days of your presidency, the United States is already experiencing a resurgence of patriotism, unity, and hope for the future.
"Your administration and the 119th Congress working together have the chance to make these next four years some of the most consequential in our nation's history. To that end, it is my distinct honor and great privilege to invite you to address a Joint Session of Congress."
The speech is not technically a State of the Union address, as these are intended to look back on the prior year. As Trump's inauguration took place on January 20, he has only been in office for six weeks.
Read the full story by Matthew Robinson on Newsweek.
Mar 04, 2025 at 08:01 AM EST
Trump vows to cut federal funding for schools allowing ‘illegal protests’
Trump announced on Truth Social that federal funding will be halted for any college, school, or university that permits "illegal protests."
He warned that agitators could face imprisonment or deportation, while American students involved would be expelled or arrested depending on the offense.
Mar 04, 2025 at 07:48 AM EST
European stocks fall following U.S. market decline
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European stock markets opened lower on Tuesday, mirroring losses in U.S. indexes. The Euro Stoxx 50, which tracks the Eurozone's largest companies, dropped around 1.5%.
Britain's FTSE 100 declined 0.7%, while Germany's DAX fell 1.7%, erasing much of Monday's gains driven by optimism over increased European defense spending.
Investors remain cautious amid ongoing economic uncertainty and global market volatility.
Mar 04, 2025 at 07:35 AM EST
Trump tells U.S. farmers to prepare for new agricultural tariffs
Trump announced on Truth Social that new tariffs on agricultural imports would take effect on April 2, urging American farmers to increase domestic production.
"To the Great Farmers of the United States: Get ready to start making a lot of agricultural product to be sold INSIDE of the United States," Trump wrote. "Tariffs will go on external product on April 2nd. Have fun!"
Mar 04, 2025 at 07:22 AM EST
Stock market in turmoil over Trump tariffs: What to know
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Global stock markets mostly declined on Tuesday as steep new tariffs on major U.S. trading partners took effect.
On Tuesday, President Donald Trump implemented 25 percent tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, along with a 10 percent increase in tariffs on Chinese goods, bringing them to 20 percent. In response, Canada, Mexico, and China have announced retaliatory measures, sparking fears of a prolonged trade war.
The tariffs are expected to disrupt supply chains and increase costs for businesses and consumers alike. Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the tariffs, stating, "Canada will not let this unjustified decision go unanswered," and China hit back with 15 percent duties on U.S. farm exports.
Read the full story by Daniel Orton on Newsweek.
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