The European Union and Mexico have sharply criticized U.S. President Donald Trump’s latest proposal to impose a 30% tariff on their imports starting August 1, calling the move unfair and damaging to international trade ties. The threatened tariffs have drawn global concern, with leaders warning of a looming trade war if diplomatic efforts fail.
Trump defended the tariffs as necessary to address what he calls “long-term, large, and persistent trade deficits” created by EU and Mexican trade barriers. In letters to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, Trump warned that any retaliatory measures would be met with even steeper tariffs.
Von der Leyen described the move as “disappointing” and said the EU was still open to reaching a deal, but added, “We will take all necessary steps to safeguard EU interests, including the adoption of proportionate countermeasures.” France’s President Emmanuel Macron echoed her stance, calling for “credible countermeasures” if no agreement is reached.
The backlash has been swift across Europe. Bernd Lange, head of the European Parliament’s trade committee, labeled the move “a slap in the face,” while German auto industry leaders warned of rising costs and economic fallout. Italy’s Giorgia Meloni urged diplomacy, saying a trade war would be senseless, while Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof called for EU unity.
Mexico also voiced strong disapproval, calling the proposed tariffs “unfair” and asserting its national sovereignty as non-negotiable. President Sheinbaum, however, struck a hopeful tone, saying she believed an agreement could still be reached. Trump also accused Mexico of insufficient action against drug trafficking, fueling further tensions.
Trump’s tariff threat comes amid a broader push to renegotiate U.S. trade relations globally. This week, similar tariff hikes were announced against Japan, South Korea, Canada, and Brazil. So far, the Trump administration has outlined two new deals, with the UK and Vietnam, but is aiming for “90 deals in 90 days,” according to White House adviser Peter Navarro.
With the August 1 deadline approaching, the risk of a major escalation in trade tensions looms unless last-minute diplomacy prevails.
