President Donald Trump on Wednesday defended his sweeping 145% tariff on Chinese goods, according to CNBC. At a Cabinet meeting, the president dismissed concerns over supply chain shocks and consumer price hikes while labeling China the “chief-ripper-offer” on trade. Trump downplayed the impact of potential shortages, suggesting Americans could do without certain imports. His remarks come amid confusion over who is leading negotiations with China. China’s Foreign Ministry denied that any tariff negotiations were currently underway, stating there had been no recent calls between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
