In a dramatic move Wednesday, Trump authorized a 90-day pause in the higher tariffs for most countries he announced last week while maintaining a 10% universal tariff.

The White House is sending mixed messages on tariffs as it pursues conflicting goals, frustrating foreign leaders and business executives who are desperate for clarity on a generational overhaul of international trade.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Donald Trump is "optimistic" the U.S. and China can strike a deal over tariffs.