US President Donald Trump has recently suggested new tariffs on the European Union, reigniting trade apprehensions with the 27-nation bloc.
At the White House, while speaking to reporters, Trump was asked whether he planned to initiate tariffs on the EU. “Do you want the truthful answer or the political answer?” he responded. “Absolutely.”
The Republican Leader, who consistently criticised the EU for unfair trade practices, reaffirmed his stance, stating, “The European Union has treated us so terribly.”
During his first tenure in 2018, Trump imposed tariffs on European steel and aluminium exports, triggering a trade dispute. In retaliation, the EU placed duties on American goods, including whiskey and motorcycles.
EU to respond ‘Firmly’ to Trump’s new tariffs.
The European Union has indicated that it will react “firmly” if Washington introduces new tariffs.
A spokesperson for the commission told AFP that the EU “regrets the US decision to impose tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China,” calling such measures “economically disruptive” and inflationary.
The spokesperson stated, “The EU would respond firmly to any trading partner that unfairly or arbitrarily imposes tariffs on EU goods.” He noted that the bloc had not yet received details of any specific actions targetting European products.
The commission emphasised the significance of a robust transatlantic trade partnership, highlighting it as “the largest in the world” and urged Washington to prioritise cooperation rather than confrontation.
Read More: Trump’s Warning: Produce in US or Pay Tariffs
European leaders are scheduled to gather in Brussels on Monday to review Trump’s latest statements and consider possible retaliatory actions.
Beyond trade conflicts, tensions between Trump and European allies have also risen due to his renewed interest in Greenland. The mineral-rich Arctic island, an autonomous Danish territory, has been a longstanding point of interest in Trump’s ambitions.
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