Wed Feb 26 22:38:49 UTC 2025: **Trump Slaps EU with 25% Tariffs, Accuses Bloc of Deceiving US**
Washington, D.C. – February 27, 2025 – President Donald Trump announced plans to impose a 25% tariff on European Union goods, accusing the EU of being formed to “cheat” the United States. This announcement follows a month of escalating tensions between Washington and its European allies, marked by a shift in US support for Ukraine and calls from European leaders for greater defense independence.
In a cabinet meeting, Trump stated unequivocally that the EU’s purpose was to deceive the US, adding that he intends to counteract this. The European Commission strongly refuted this claim, highlighting the EU’s role as the world’s largest free market, beneficial to the US. Former Swedish Prime Minister Carl Bildt countered Trump’s historical assertion on social media, noting the EU’s formation was primarily aimed at preventing future European wars.
The US previously supported European integration, viewing the 1993 EU formation as a crucial step towards peace. However, Trump’s “America First” policy prioritizes national interests over international partnerships, and he cited a $235.6 billion trade deficit with the EU as justification for the tariffs. Cars are expected to be among the products targeted, a move that will significantly impact Germany’s already struggling economy.
The European Commission has warned of a strong and immediate response to the new tariffs. This action mirrors Trump’s previous imposition of tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, citing issues such as illegal immigration and drug smuggling. While acknowledging his own European ancestry, Trump insisted that Europe, not the US, should guarantee Ukraine’s security. This comes after the US unexpectedly sided with Russia at the UN on a resolution regarding the Ukraine conflict, omitting the crucial point of Ukraine’s territorial integrity.
The cancellation of a meeting between EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio further underscores the strained relationship. While Trump met with French President Macron and will meet with British Prime Minister Starmer, the increasing tensions highlight a growing divide on issues ranging from Ukraine to trade and defense. Germany’s newly elected leader, Friedrich Merz, a transatlantic alliance supporter, has urged Europe to rapidly establish defense independence from the US. Secretary Rubio, while asserting that NATO is not in danger, stressed the need for increased European defense spending.
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