Shock and anger as Trump’s tariff letters hit unexpected.
A wave of “shock, frustration, anger” swept through Japanese and South Korean governments after receiving overnight letters from President Trump’s administration threatening tariffs unless deals were reached by Aug 1.
Japan and South Korea—long-time U.S. allies—said they were already in “good-faith” negotiations and criticized the sudden escalation. A former Japanese official summarized the reaction as “shock… frustration… and anger”.
Politico reports the letters risk undoing years of careful U.S. diplomacy in Asia. Many analysts warn the tactic could backfire, pushing allies toward China as trust erodes .
ASEAN ministers, meeting concurrently, clearly signaled unity and addressed trade cohesion—underscoring how such unilateral moves may undermine broader diplomatic goals.
I’m Adedayo Obadina
Talksocialtalks
