As the clock struck midnight, new sweeping tariffs affecting over 90 nations rolled out, including a staggering 125% tax on imports from China. In a dramatic speech at the National Republican Congressional Committee Dinner, President Donald Trump bragged about the lengths other countries are going to avoid these tariffs, claiming they are 'kissing my ass' in their desperation to strike a deal.

"I’m telling you, these countries are calling us up, kissing my ass," Trump said, to laughter from the audience. He continued, exaggerating their pleas: "‘Please, please, sir, make a deal. I’ll do anything!" But he didn’t reveal which nations were allegedly begging for mercy.

The president also took aim at dissenting Republican lawmakers, particularly those urging Congress to assume greater control over trade negotiations. "I see some rebel Republican, some guy who wants to grandstand, say, ‘I think that Congress should take over negotiations.’ Let me tell you, you don’t negotiate like I negotiate!" he asserted.

Amidst growing turmoil from Trump's trade policies, Republican Rep. Don Bacon from Nebraska is championing a bill that seeks to rein in the president's tariff powers, as alarming volatility grips international stock markets. The proposed legislation would mandate that Congress approve tariffs within a 60-day window and require detailed notifications from the president regarding their intent and potential impact.

Fellow Republican Jeff Hurd, who co-sponsored the bill alongside Democratic representatives, emphasized the urgent need for transparency. "When people are already struggling with higher costs, President Trump’s tariffs are doing just the opposite — elevating prices on essentials from coffee to cars. It’s slashing retirement savings and sending markets into a tailspin," he declared.

Meanwhile, Hurd highlighted that these tariffs may even be unconstitutional, asserting, "This isn’t a political issue for me. I believe Congress must reclaim its constitutionally mandated authority."

In a retaliatory response to the Trump administration's aggressive trade stance, China imposed its own 34% tariffs, pushing the U.S. to implement an even harsher 104% tariff just hours later. The exchange has manifested into a tit-for-tat cycle with escalating stakes.

On Wednesday, China filed a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO), decrying the escalating trade war as a reckless move that violates established global trade rules. "The situation has dangerously escalated. As one of the affected members, China expresses grave concern and firm opposition to this reckless move," stated a spokesperson.

Despite the turmoil, Trump announced a pause on reciprocal tariffs for over 75 countries for 90 days, though notably excluding China, and retained a baseline tariff of 10% on nations originally subject to reciprocal measures.

The unfolding trade war raises concerns not just for economic stability but for the broader implications on international relations as countries navigate the pressures of Trump’s audacious style of negotiation.