Trump Hints at New Tariffs on EU, Reviving Trade Tensions
News Desk
Washington: US President Donald Trump has signaled a possible new wave of tariffs on the European Union (EU), rekindling trade tensions with the 27-nation bloc.
During an interaction with reporters at the White House, Trump was asked about plans to impose tariffs on the EU. “Do you want the truthful answer or the political answer?” he quipped before confirming, “Absolutely.”
Trump, a longtime critic of EU trade policies, reiterated his stance, stating, “The European Union has treated us so terribly.”
History of Trade Disputes
This is not the first time Trump has taken an aggressive stance on EU trade. In 2018, during his first term, he imposed tariffs on European steel and aluminum exports, triggering a retaliatory response from the EU, which slapped duties on American goods such as whiskey and motorcycles.
In December 2024, Trump warned of a potential trade war unless the EU increased its purchases of American oil and gas. His latest remarks have reignited fears of economic disruptions between two of the world’s largest trading partners.
EU Warns of Retaliation
The European Commission has vowed to respond “firmly” if Washington proceeds with new tariffs.
“The EU regrets the US decision to impose tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China,” a spokesperson told AFP, describing such measures as “economically disruptive” and inflationary.
“The EU would respond firmly to any trading partner that unfairly or arbitrarily imposes tariffs on EU goods,” the spokesperson added, though noting that no official measures had yet been communicated.
Emphasizing the importance of the transatlantic trade relationship, the commission urged the US to prioritize cooperation over confrontation.
EU Leaders to Meet Over Trade Tensions
EU leaders are set to meet in Brussels on Monday to discuss Trump’s latest statements and assess potential countermeasures.
Beyond trade, tensions between Trump and European allies have also intensified over his renewed interest in Greenland, the mineral-rich Arctic island that remains an autonomous Danish territory.
