A chorus of European leaders has united in condemning Donald Trump’s recent threat of a 50% tariff on all EU imports, emphasizing the need for a respectful and mutually beneficial trade agreement. Maroš Šefčovič, the EU trade commissioner, articulated the bloc’s commitment to good-faith negotiations, while French, Italian, Dutch, and Irish officials expressed disappointment and urged de-escalation. The Italian foreign minister, Antonio Tajani, reiterated the aim of “zero-for-zero tariffs.” Trump’s frustration over trade talks and a perceived $250 million trade deficit prompted his latest tariff proposal, which also included a potential 25% levy on Apple and Samsung phones. Despite previous US tariffs, European leaders remain steadfast in their belief that negotiations are the only sustainable path forward, with potential countermeasures if talks prove unsuccessful.
Europe Unites Against Trump’s Tariff Ultimatum, Seeks “Zero-for-Zero” Deal
