United States President Donald Trump has taken direct control of international trade negotiations, according to White House Senior Counselor for Trade and Manufacturing Peter Navarro. Speaking on Friday, Navarro confirmed that Trump is acting as the chief negotiator in talks involving multiple key trade partners.

Navarro revealed that Australia, the United Kingdom, Japan, and South Korea are among the countries that initiated negotiations after the U.S. imposed a range of reciprocal tariffs. These tariffs varied in percentage depending on the country, prompting swift diplomatic outreach from affected governments.

To manage the dialogue, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has been tasked with overseeing talks with Japan and South Korea. Navarro emphasized that the current negotiation landscape is “very different” from what it was during Trump’s first term in office, hinting at a more aggressive and hands-on approach by the president this time around.

These remarks followed Trump’s announcement of a 90-day suspension on most of the newly introduced tariffs, with China being the notable exception. The temporary pause is intended to provide room for meaningful negotiations, potentially easing tensions and allowing trade partners to avoid further escalation.

As diplomatic channels reopen and economic allies respond, the administration is signaling a willingness to recalibrate trade dynamics while maintaining firm pressure on China. Navarro's comments underscore the administration’s commitment to restructuring global trade in a way that prioritizes American interests.