During a press gaggle aboard Air Force One on April 6, 2025, former President Donald Trump declared that world leaders are “dying to make a deal” on tariffs after his administration announced sweeping new trade measures. He claimed that more than 50 countries have reached out, signaling a strong international interest in renegotiating trade terms with the United States.
Trump defended the tariff strategy as necessary to correct long-standing trade imbalances, asserting that short-term market disruptions are a fair price for long-term gains. “Sometimes you have to take your medicine,” he said, likening economic volatility to a temporary side effect of a necessary cure.
Despite rising concerns about a potential recession and market instability, key members of Trump’s economic team, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett, supported the move. They emphasized the administration’s focus on reducing trade deficits and encouraged patience as talks unfold.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirmed the administration’s account, stating that global leaders are actively engaging and expressing willingness to negotiate. While critics warn of possible economic fallout, Trump remains confident that the U.S. holds a strong negotiating position.
