US President Donald Trump has defended his controversial trade policies, insisting that tariffs brought “trillions of dollars” into the American economy, despite a federal appeals court ruling that he exceeded his presidential authority in imposing them.

Taking to Truth Social, Trump claimed his economic strategy kept inflation low and energy costs down, even while maintaining high tariffs on imports. “Prices are WAY DOWN in the USA, with virtually no inflation. Gasoline is at many year lows. All of this despite magnificent Tariffs, which are bringing in Trillions of Dollars from countries that took advantage of us for decades,” Trump wrote.

His comments came after the US Court of Appeals ruled that Trump had overreached his constitutional powers by unilaterally introducing “reciprocal tariffs.” The court clarified that the power to levy tariffs lies solely with Congress, which has authority over taxation and trade.

The ruling specifically addressed Trump’s use of the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). While the law grants presidents certain emergency powers, judges determined it does not authorize the imposition of tariffs.

The decision, however, is not yet final. Implementation has been stayed until October 14, giving the administration time to file an appeal. Trump indicated he would take the case to the US Supreme Court, framing the dispute as a matter of protecting presidential authority and national economic interests.

Notably, tariffs Trump placed on steel and aluminum under a separate statute remain unaffected. Analysts say the ruling could have far-reaching consequences for future administrations’ use of emergency powers in trade disputes.

The court’s decision marks a legal setback for Trump’s America First trade agenda, but his latest defense suggests tariffs will remain a cornerstone of his economic message heading into the political season.