Macron Hails US Court's Tariff Ruling as Triumph of Checks and Balances

French President Emmanuel Macron has pointed to a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision striking down tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump as a prime example of the "rule of law" in action. He made the remarks during the opening of the International Agricultural Show in Paris.

"For those who think Supreme Courts are problems in real life: The Supreme Court examined the Constitution and ruled that this [Trump's tariffs] did not comply with it," Macron stated. "Now everyone is saying how great this is. It's good that in democratic countries there is a system of checks and balances. This can only be welcomed."

The French leader added that Paris would analyze the consequences of Trump's new 10 percent global tariff and take appropriate measures in response.

Macron emphasized France's desire to continue exporting its goods to the United States, including agricultural products, luxury items, fashion, and aerospace equipment. He stressed that trade relations must be mutually beneficial and stable, avoiding unilateral steps.

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled on Friday, February 20, that Trump's sweeping global tariffs, enacted in April 2025 under a federal law intended for national emergencies, were unlawful. The court found by a majority that Trump had overstepped his authority by using this statute to impose his worldwide "reciprocal" tariffs.

In response, Trump labeled the court's decision a "disgrace" and claimed to have a backup plan. Later the same day, he signed an executive order imposing an additional 10 percent duty on all countries.