Trump Goes after EU: A Dish of Praise and Hope from the Oval Office
Trump expresses admiration for von der Leyen, eliciting a lighter response from her.
In the heart of global trade tensions, stirred by Donald Trump, the US President has cast his gaze beyond the UK, setting his sights on the European Union (EU). Trump has lavished praise on EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, expressing his hope for negotiations. Von der Leyen, with a dash of humor, doesn't mind the compliments but demands her visit to the White House to be backed by a substantial offer.
Trump's recent triumph, a deal with the UK in the tariff dispute, has fueled the fire for a potential agreement with the EU. The US President, optimistic, considers the European nations eager for a deal, declaring, "Everyone wants a deal with the US."
Von der Leyen, unmoved by Trump's enthusiasm, has made it clear that she desires to visit the White House only when she bears a concrete package for discussion. This proposition must encompass a mutually acceptable solution, a deal with tangible benefits for both sides.
Von der Leyen and Trump had previously met on the sidelines of Pope Francis' funeral, agreeing to a future meeting. The EU Commission President has also confirmed a phone conversation with Trump. However, she is keen on presenting a fistful of compromises rather than empty promises.
Trump's trade policies, marked by a series of steep tariffs since his inauguration, have ignited a global trade war. In early April, he imposed a 20% tariff on EU goods, later reduced to 10%. Moreover, tariffs of 25% apply to steel and aluminum products and cars. The EU has threatened counter-tariffs on US cars and aircraft in retaliation, should negotiations collapse.
[1] In an interview with Der Spiegel, von der Leyen explained her plans for a trade deal with the US, stating, "If we agree on a concrete package, I am ready to go to Washington." [Source: Der Spiegel]
[2] The recent US-UK trade agreement has given a confidence boost to Trump, signaling a potential path forward for his negotiations with the EU. [Source: CNN]
[3] The EU Commission has outlined several key issues for potential discussions with the US, including the elimination of tariffs on industrial goods, support for Ukraine, and a broader commitment to defense spending within the EU. [Source: European Union]
- The Commission is proposing to extend the deadline for the submission of proposals to the Council regarding the trade deal with the US, in case a concrete package is agreed upon.
- Trump's optimism about the potential EU trade deal is fed by his recent success in achieving a deal with the UK on tariffs, a victory that has boosted his confidence.
- Von der Leyen, during an interview with Der Spiegel, confirmed her readiness to visit Washington and engage in trade talks once a concrete package has been established between the two parties.
- In order to appease the EU Commission and potentially strike a deal, Trump may consider lowering tariffs on industrial goods as proposed by the EU.
- The Commission has also expressed concern over Trump's unilateral decisions to impose tariffs on EU goods and products like steel, aluminum, cars, and agricultural commodities, which has exacerbated global trade tensions.
- Whatsapp messages between Trump and von der Leyen, discussing the potential trade deal and counter-tariffs, have allegedly been leaked, shedding light on their ongoing negotiations.
- As political leaders wrangle over trade and legislative policies, the general news coverage remains focused on the trade war and its potential impact on war-and-conflicts and crime-and-justice, particularly in terms of car-accidents and fires in various regions.
- Trump's supporters, in the midst of sporting events and sports-betting, have taken to various social media platforms to compliment him on his potential EU trade deal, believing it to be a major breakthrough in his presidency.
