In a bold move, U.S. President Donald Trump has slapped a whopping 25% tariff on European imports, targeting everything from cars to various goods. 🚗💼 This decision has sparked significant tension across the Atlantic, with European nations quickly rallying together to defend free and fair trade. 🌍✊
Trump announced the tariff plan during a White House cabinet meeting, accusing the European Union of \"taking advantage\" of the United States by blocking American cars and agricultural products. In response, European Commission spokesperson Olof Gill highlighted the profitability of U.S. investments in Europe, thanks to the EU's large and integrated single market.
\"By creating a large and integrated single market, the European Union has facilitated trade, reduced costs for EU exporters, and harmonized standards and regulations across all our member states. As a result, U.S. investments in Europe are highly profitable,\" Gill emphasized.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola echoed this sentiment, stressing the shared values between Europe and the United States and warning against isolation. She assured that the EU is ready to respond \"firmly and immediately against unjust barriers to free and fair trade.\" 🇪🇺🤝🇺🇸
Key EU members like France and Spain have stood united in this stance. French Economy Minister Eric Lombard called for a proportionate reaction, while Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu insisted that the EU must respond in the most immediate and proportionate way possible.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez reaffirmed the EU's commitment to open trade and cooperation, rejecting Trump's claims that the EU was \"formed to screw the United States.\" Instead, he highlighted that many of America's wealthy are \"thanks to Europe.\" 🇪🇸✨
Meanwhile, Italian leaders like Adolfo Urso and Emanuele Orsini voiced concerns over escalating trade tensions, emphasizing the need for unity and stronger measures to protect European businesses and jobs.
As the trade war heats up, the EU remains steadfast in its mission to maintain free and fair trade, ensuring economic sovereignty and fostering international collaboration. Stay tuned as this transatlantic showdown unfolds! 🔄🌐
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
