Trump reignites trade conflict with the EU. Announces 25% tariffs on cars and trucks entering the U.S.
The American president announced on Friday the resumption of the trade “war” with the European Union. Donald Trump stated that he would raise tariffs to 25% on European cars and trucks entering the United States. His decision risks further straining relations between Washington and its European partners. The White House leader accused the European Union of not fully respecting the trade agreement reached with Washington. The announcement was made in a message posted on his platform, Truth Social.
“I am pleased to announce that, given the fact that the European Union is not fully complying with the trade agreement we reached, next week I will increase the tariffs imposed on the European Union on cars and trucks entering the United States. These tariffs will rise to 25%,” Donald Trump wrote.
Exceptions for manufacturers that invest in the U.S.
The American president stated that the measure would not apply to European manufacturers that choose to relocate their production to the United States.
“It is clearly understood and agreed that, if they produce cars and trucks in factories located in the United States, NO TARIFFS OF ANY KIND WILL APPLY,” Trump stated.
The Republican leader claimed that his tariff policy is already producing major economic effects, saying that investments in the American automotive sector have exceeded $100 billion.
“Numerous car and truck factories are currently under construction, with investments of more than $100 billion, a RECORD in the history of the automotive industry. These factories, where American workers will be employed, will open soon,” he said.
The decision comes in a sensitive political context
The announcement comes at a delicate moment for the Trump administration, amid declining poll numbers and growing dissatisfaction among Americans over the rising cost of living.
“Nothing like what is happening in America today has ever happened before!” Trump said.
Relations with Europe are becoming increasingly tense
The decision risks further straining relations between Washington and its European partners, which have already been affected by disagreements over security and defense policy within NATO.
In recent months, Donald Trump has repeatedly criticized European allies for what he considers insufficient support for American initiatives and for the refusal of some states to provide military bases for certain strategic operations.
The current term of the American leader began with a broad global tariff offensive aimed at forcing the renegotiation of trade agreements in favor of the United States.
However, a significant part of this strategy was blocked in February by the U.S. Supreme Court, which invalidated several economic measures proposed by the administration.
