Former US President Donald Trump has unexpectedly paused his proposed tariff hikes for 90 days, stepping back from a full-scale trade conflict. This move comes after days of strong rhetoric from Trump and his team insisting the tariffs were necessary to protect American manufacturing. The decision sparked a sharp rebound in global markets, which had been shaken by investor panic and criticism from both Republican allies and the public.

The White House claims the pause was part of a broader strategy to encourage negotiation with over 75 countries that have now reached out to the US. However, the sudden shift raised questions about whether it was a strategic pullback or a response to growing political and economic pressure.

Details about which countries and sectors are impacted by the suspension remained unclear for hours, leading to confusion among US trade partners. Meanwhile, Trump reaffirmed his stance against China by imposing a 125% tariff, signaling a focused trade confrontation.

Critics, including Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer, accuse Trump of chaotic governance. Regardless of the intent, the current pause offers temporary relief. But with the 90-day countdown underway, uncertainty looms over whether this move is a negotiation tactic or just a delay in a broader trade war.