PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP pressed forward on Thursday with tariffs on aluminum and steel (White House photo).

Tariffs on steel and aluminum were declared by President Donald Trump on Thursday, exempting Canada and Mexico and inviting other nations to work harder to avoid undercutting the value of American products.

The move defied opposition from within his own party, as some Republican leaders expressed concern that such a move might trigger retaliatory measures against American exports.

“The American aluminum and steel industry has been ravaged by aggressive foreign trade practices. It’s really an assault on our country. It’s been an assault,” Trump said, according to the Associated Press.

Tariffs of 25 percent would be levied on steel and 10 percent on aluminum.

21 sought help when “radioactive” fumes released

About three dozen people have been treats for the effects of what authorities believe was a nerve-agent attack involved in an assasinaton of a former Russian spy in the English city of Salisbury.

Still hospitalized are ex-spy Sergei Skirpal, his daughter and a police officer to went to their aid. The former two are in critical condition and the latter listed as “serious.” Although no suspects have been named, some leaders in Britain are suggesting that the attack was made by Russian operatives.

“Test case” abortion law passed in Mississippi

A bill banning abortion in most cases after 15 weeks of pregnancy was passed Wednesday by the state legislature in Mississippi. The bill, which next goes to the governor for his signature. The current limit in that state is 20 weeks.

Under the new standard, abortion after 15 weeks would only be permitted if the fetus were not viable or there was a threat to the physical health of the mother, such as the failure of a major organ. It does not exempt instances of rape or incest.

Abortions right supporters are expected to make a challenge in court if signed into law. Backers of the bill hope the matter will go to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Overnight sports scores: Lakers hang on

Sports results from Wednesday of interest to our area.

• Los Angeles Lakers 108, Orlando Magic 107 (NBA): Brook Lopez hit two free throws in the final second as the team turned back the visitors at Staples Center. The Lakers are now 25-35 and in third place in the Pacific Division.