BRUSSELS, May 24, 2025 — U.S. President Donald Trump announced Friday that his administration will impose a 50% tariff on all goods imported from the European Union beginning June 1, intensifying tensions between two of the world’s largest trading partners.
The announcement comes just ahead of a scheduled call between EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, a conversation aimed at averting a full-blown trade conflict.
Citing dissatisfaction with the pace of trade negotiations, Trump accused the EU of longstanding unfair trade practices. In a separate but related move, he also reiterated his intention to implement a 25% tariff on smartphones not manufactured in the United States—potentially impacting global tech giants like Apple and Samsung.
Commissioner Šefčovič responded firmly, emphasizing that any trade agreement must be grounded in mutual respect. “Any trade deal with the U.S. must be based on respect, not threats,” he said. While the European Commission declined further comment ahead of the planned talks, officials have signaled that the bloc is prepared to respond with countermeasures if the proposed tariffs are enacted.
The threat of new tariffs has already rattled financial markets, particularly in Europe. Analysts warn that disruption to the $1.3 trillion transatlantic trade flow could hit major sectors, including automotive manufacturing and agriculture.
The European Union and United States are under growing pressure to find a diplomatic resolution before the June 1 deadline. Observers say the upcoming call between Šefčovič and Greer will be a key moment to defuse escalating rhetoric and explore the possibility of a negotiated compromise.
