US tariff policy ‘hasn’t changed’ despite supreme court ruling, trade chief says

The Guardian World
by Edward Helmore and Lisa O’Carroll
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Top US trade negotiator Jamieson Greer has reaffirmed that American tariff policy remains unchanged following a Supreme Court ruling that invalidated many of Donald Trump’s tariffs. Despite the court’s decision, which dealt a significant blow to Trump’s aggressive economic agenda, Greer emphasized that the US will not withdraw from existing trade agreements with key partners like the UK and the EU. This stance underscores the administration’s commitment to maintaining international deals while adapting its approach to comply with legal challenges. The Supreme Court’s ruling on Friday marked a major defeat for Trump, as it rejected his broad use of tariffs to achieve economic objectives. The decision effectively dismantled one of Trump’s key tools for reshaping trade relations during his presidency. In response, Trump announced new global tariffs under different legal statutes, though these appear to be temporary measures aimed at circumventing the court’s ruling. This situation highlights the ongoing complexities of international trade policy and its impact on global relationships. The US government’s decision to uphold existing trade agreements while introducing alternative tariff strategies reflects a strategic shift rather than a retreat from previous policies. For readers interested in world affairs, this underscores the delicate balance between enforcing national economic interests and maintaining international cooperation. The outcome also raises questions about how future trade disputes will be resolved, particularly under shifting political landscapes. The ruling’s broader implications for global trade dynamics are significant. It signals that even powerful nations like the US must navigate legal and diplomatic challenges when implementing protectionist measures. As other countries closely monitor these
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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/22/2026