Donald Trump has sharply criticised the US Supreme Court after it blocked his sweeping global tariff policy, accusing the justices of unfairly curtailing presidential authority.
In a 6–3 ruling, the Supreme Court held that Trump exceeded his constitutional powers by imposing broad tariffs on multiple countries, effectively dismantling one of the most aggressive trade measures of his administration.
“I Can Destroy the Trade”
Speaking at a press conference following the decision, Trump insisted he still retains expansive powers over international trade and foreign relations.
“I can destroy the trade. I can destroy the country. I’m allowed to impose a foreign-destroying embargo. I can embargo. I can do anything I want, but I can’t charge one dollar.”
The remarks drew swift backlash from critics, who described them as reckless and inflammatory. Supporters, however, argued that Trump was highlighting what he sees as contradictions in the court’s interpretation of executive authority.
Justices Branded a “Disgrace”
Trump later vented his anger on Truth Social, praising the three justices who dissented and condemning the six-member majority — including two he personally appointed.
“They are a disgrace to our nation,” Trump wrote, accusing the court of being influenced by political enemies and foreign interests. He also described the justices as “obnoxious, ignorant, and loud.”
In a sarcastic aside, he added:
“I wanted to be a good boy. I didn’t want to do anything that would affect the decision of the court.”
Economic Fallout and Political Pushback
The ruling presents a significant financial challenge for the federal government, which must now determine how to refund an estimated $184 billion collected through the invalidated tariffs.
Analysts say the tariffs had already driven up consumer prices, as importers passed increased costs on to American consumers.
Concerns have also surfaced within Trump’s own party. Former Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell warned that large-scale trade wars — particularly with allies — were economically damaging well before the court’s intervention.
Trump Signals Next Move
Despite the setback, Trump announced plans to pursue a more limited 10 per cent global tariff under a different federal statute, signalling that his hardline trade posture remains firmly in place.
The decision has intensified debates over executive power, trade policy, and the balance between the presidency and the judiciary as the economic and political ramifications continue to unfold.
🚨🇺🇸 BREAKING: Trump says he is allowed to destroy any country in the world:
“I can do anything I want to do to them … I’m allowed to destroy the country.”pic.twitter.com/8EWKGMm2hy
— Jackson Hinkle 🇺🇸 (@jacksonhinklle) February 21, 2026
