President Trump emerged Tuesday after a quiet holiday weekend marked by viral death rumors, using an Oval Office meeting to slam US trade partners, defend his sweeping tariffs, and dismiss fears of a China–Russia axis.
A Return After Rumors
Speculation about Trump’s health dominated social media over Labor Day weekend, with memes and conspiracy theories falsely claiming the 79-year-old president was gravely ill or even dead. When asked by reporters on Tuesday, Trump smirked and replied:
“Last week I did numerous news conferences … then I didn’t do any for two days and they said, ‘There must be something wrong with him.’ Biden wouldn’t do them for months.”
He added on Truth Social: “NEVER FELT BETTER IN MY LIFE.”
The White House attributed Trump’s bruised hand, visible during the event, to his long-standing condition of chronic venous insufficiency, downplaying speculation about his fitness.
Tariffs Take Center Stage
At the same Oval Office session, Trump outlined his administration’s next move in the tariff fight. A federal appeals court ruled Friday that most of his global tariffs were illegal, though they remain in place pending appeal.
Trump vowed to take the case straight to the Supreme Court on Wednesday:
“It’s an economic emergency. If we don’t win that decision, you’ll see a reverberation like maybe you’ve never seen before.”
He argued that tariffs are now integral to market stability:
“The stock market’s down because the stock market needs the tariffs. They want the tariffs.”
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent echoed confidence that the high court would side with Trump under a 1977 emergency law, but acknowledged a “Plan B” is in development if the legal tide turns.
Shots at Trade Partners
Trump broadened his attack to global trading rivals:
- On China, India, and Brazil: “They kill us with tariffs.”
- On India specifically: “They sell us massive amounts of goods, their biggest client, but we sell them very little. Until now a totally one-sided disaster.”
- On fears of an anti-US bloc: “I’m not concerned about any axis forming against us. Russia and China would never use their military on us.”
He also teased cryptic revelations about his relationship with Vladimir Putin:
“I have learned things that are interesting. Will share soon.”
China’s Counter-Message: Parade of Power
While Trump defended tariffs, Beijing staged a massive military parade in Tiananmen Square to mark the 80th anniversary of World War II’s end. President Xi Jinping declared:
“The world is facing a choice of peace or war, dialogue or confrontation.”
The show featured missiles, tanks, and advanced drones, with Putin and Kim Jong Un seated prominently among foreign guests. Trump responded online with sarcasm:
“Please give my warmest regards to Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong Un, as you conspire against The United States of America.”
Analysts noted the symbolism: China projecting strength, Russia and North Korea signaling solidarity, and Western leaders largely absent.
Why It Matters
- Tariffs in legal limbo — The Supreme Court fight will decide whether Trump’s “reciprocal tariffs” endure or collapse.
- Markets watching closely — Trump insists tariffs are pro-market, though critics warn volatility could rise.
- Geopolitical rivalry deepens — Beijing’s military spectacle highlights a power shift even as Trump downplays an axis of adversaries.
- Public perception — The viral death hoax and visible health concerns underscore how Trump’s image remains central to both his support and opposition.
Trump’s reappearance was more than just a rebuttal of health rumors — it was a reminder of how his trade wars, global rhetoric, and personal persona remain intertwined. With tariffs heading to the Supreme Court and China showcasing its military might, the stakes for both economics and geopolitics are climbing fast.
Disclosure: This article does not represent investment advice. The content and materials featured on this page are for educational purposes only.
Related:
Nvidia Q2 2026 Earnings Preview and Prediction: What to expect
Why Warren Buffett and Hedge Funds Are Betting on UnitedHealth Stock (UNH)
