Trump, it’s “trade war” with the EU: 25% tariffs. Brussels “We will react immediately”

US president announces high tariffs on EU products, accusing it of taking advantage of the US. Brussels reacts by promising an immediate response

Donald Trump has officially kicked off what he calls the “trade war” with the European Union, announcing his intention to apply 25 percent tariffs on European products. The U.S. president, during his first cabinet meeting, said he had already made the decision and was ready to make the official announcement soon. The new tariffs, similar to those already imposed on Mexico and Canada, are expected to go into effect on April 2.

Trump justified this move by claiming that the EU does not accept American agricultural and automotive products and, in his words, takes advantage of the United States. “The EU was born to rip off the United States and is doing a good job,” he said, stressing that now that he is president, things will change. The statement comes after recent trade measures against Mexico and Canada, put in place after commitments from these countries regarding illegal immigration and fentanyl trafficking.

The European reaction was not long in coming. A European Commission spokesperson responded that the Union will react “firmly and immediately” to the duties imposed, reiterating that the EU is the world’s largest free trade market and has helped facilitate trade and reduce costs for U.S. exporters. Brussels also stressed that it will continue to protect European businesses, workers and consumers from unjustified tariffs.

In Italy, Trump’s announcement prompted several political reactions. Democratic Party Secretary Elly Schlein spoke of a “trade war” and called on Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to take a clear position, while Giuseppe Conte, leader of the 5-Star Movement, criticized Meloni’s silence. Matteo Renzi accused the Italian right wing of rooting for those who harm the national economy, while Carlo Calenda asked if the “Trumpians of Italy” had anything to say about the situation.

Confindustria President Emanuele Orsini also expressed concern, calling the U.S. measures an “attack on EU businesses and jobs,” which could undermine the economic and social stability of European countries. Orsini warned that the risk is the deindustrialization of the continent, with heavy repercussions on employment levels.

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