Trump’s Tariff Bombshell Hits Nearly 70 Countries While the UK Gets a “Because I Like Them” Pass

So here’s the kind of wild, only-in-2025 moment that feels like a strange mix of politics and personal vibes.

This week, Donald Trump unveiled a sweeping set of new tariffs—what he’s calling Liberation Day III—and nearly 70 countries are suddenly looking at higher costs to trade with the U.S. These tariffs, which kick in August 7, will now start at 15% for countries with a trade deficit with the U.S., while only a select few—like the UK—get to keep the lower 10% rate.

But here’s the jaw-dropper: when asked why the UK scored a “discount,” Trump didn’t cite trade numbers or political negotiations. He just smiled and said, “Because I like them.”

Yes. That’s the reason.

This isn’t just about money—it’s about power, preference, and playing favorites. While countries like India, Iraq, and Switzerland are hit with sky-high tariffs (some up to 40%), Britain gets a pat on the back and a sweet deal, all because the former president is apparently a fan of the Prime Minister.

In his own words, Trump praised the UK leader, saying:

“He’s done a very, very good job… what others couldn’t do in six years, he did.”

It’s the kind of remark that leaves trade experts scratching their heads and international partners wondering what rules even apply anymore. Because right now, it doesn’t look like economics are driving policy—it looks like loyalty is.

One trade expert warned that while the UK might enjoy short-term benefits, businesses are still nervous: what happens if Trump wakes up tomorrow and doesn’t like someone anymore?

The list of countries facing steeper tariffs reads like a global roll call—Sri Lanka, South Africa, Vietnam, Brazil, India, even allies like South Korea and Japan. Some of these increases could ripple into higher prices on everyday items in the U.S., from clothing to electronics.

So while Trump’s administration claims this will protect American jobs and bring back manufacturing, critics fear it could ignite trade tensions that leave everyday consumers footing the bill.

But maybe the most unsettling part? It’s not just policy. It’s personal.

And in Trump’s world, that might just be the most unpredictable tariff of all.