Trump announces delay of half tariffs on EU goods until July
The United States and the European Union have postponed looming tariffs on imports, with President Donald Trump announcing a delay until July 9 after a conversation with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
In a social media post, Von der Leyen had requested more time until July 9 to "reach a good deal," following Trump's earlier threat to impose tariffs of up to 50% on June 1. The move has provided negotiators additional time to resolve their impasse.
American leaders had previously signaled readiness to retaliate with their own measures if tariffs were imposed by Europe [2][3]. However, Trump's decision to delay the tariffs may have softened tensions, with the US president stating that "we had a very nice call and [Von der Leyen] wants to get down to serious negotiations" [4].
Both sides have shown a willingness to continue negotiations, as top trade officials from both the US and EU remain in regular contact [2][3]. While negotiations are ongoing, there is lingering skepticism about the potential for a comprehensive trade deal, with some EU officials viewing the process as self-sabotaging [2].
The tariff threats serve as leverage for the US, with markets reacting to each announcement [2][4]. However, the delay in tariff imposition suggests both parties are prioritizing de-escalation and continued dialogue.
Taoiseach Micheal Martin, the Irish premier, expressed his approval of the European Union's measured approach to the situation, stating that "it's absolutely important that we can get a realistic and reasonable deal between Europe and the United States to help consumers, to help citizens across the world" [5].
The backdrop to this ongoing trade dispute includes Trump's repeated criticism of the European Union and his claims that the region was created to undermine US interests [1]. Responding to his initial tariff threat, EU trade chief Maroš Sefčovic stated, "EU-US trade is unmatched and must be guided by mutual respect, not threats. We stand ready to defend our interests" [1].
With the tariff deadline now set for July 9, both sides are focusing on de-escalating tensions and finding common ground in negotiations [2][4].
- The delay in implementing tariffs until July 9 hints at a shift in politics, as both the United States and the European Union seem to be prioritizing policy-and-legislation focused on de-escalation and dialogue.
- Amidst the general-news of the war of words over trade, the postponement of tariffs by President Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen indicates a possible softening of tensions, signaling a potential move towards negotiation rather than confrontation.
