According to Donald Trump, a new party has emerged in the United States:"PANICAN," which supposedly includes "weak and stupid people." Specifically those who are nervous about the plummeting stock markets and the complete uncertainty in the future – both caused by his global tariffs. "Be strong, courageous, and patient, and greatness will be the result," the American president wrote on his Truth Social network. Still, the looming confrontation with China is unlikely to dispel doubts. Unpredictable months lie ahead.

Instead of offering signs of openness or a willingness to compromise, Trump on Monday, April 7, chose to demand the commercial surrender of his main rival, calling China "the biggest abuser of them all." This demand had no chance of happening, as this moment marks a high-stakes test of credibility and power for both countries.

Beijing's decision to respond to American tariffs with a matching 34% rate has pushed Washington to a new level of escalation. In a message on Truth Social on Monday morning, the American president announced that China had until the next day to withdraw its 34%, or the United States would raise its own increase its own tariffs by an additional 50%. This would bring American tariffs on Chinese products to a total of 104%, factoring in the 20% increase already added since Trump's return to the White House, along with preexisting tariffs.

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