WASHINGTON, Feb 25 (KUNA) -- US President Donald Trump affirmed tariffs will remain in effect despite a recent Supreme Court ruling overturning them, stressing that trade agreements concluded prior to the decision will stay in place.
Speaking at the annual State of the Union address before a joint session of Congress Tuesday evening, Trump described the ruling as "disappointing," but said countries and companies seek to preserve existing agreements.
He said the tariffs would continue under alternative legal provisions that have been fully approved and tested, adding congressional legislation would not be necessary.
Trump expressed belief that tariffs paid by foreign countries could largely replace the modern income tax system over time.
He credited tariffs as a key driver of what he described as an economic turnaround, citing record levels in the Dow Jones and the S&P 500, and the collection of hundreds of billions of dollars.
On immigration, Trump said US borders are now the strongest and most secure in the nation's history, adding no illegal migrants were admitted over the past nine months.
He noted a 56 percent drop in fentanyl trafficking within one year, stressing the government's primary duty is to protect American citizens.
Regarding drug cartels, Trump said parts of the region, including areas of Mexico, had been controlled by violent groups, noting his administration designated them foreign terrorist organizations and intensified military operations.
On Venezuela, he said US forces ended the rule of Nicolas Maduro and brought him to face American justice, describing it as a major victory for US security and a new beginning for the Venezuelan people.
The State of the Union address is an annual occasion during which the US president briefs Congress on the country's overall condition and outlines key domestic and foreign policies. (end) asj.aai