Trump Proposes 50% Tariff on EU Goods; Brussels Responds with Call for ‘Mutual Respect’

Brussels/Washington, May 24 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) — Former U.S. President Donald Trump said he would recommend a 50% tariff on goods from the European Union, potentially starting June 1, a move that has drawn swift rebuke from European officials amid heightened transatlantic trade tensions.

Responding to Trump’s comments, EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič said on Friday that trade between the European Union and the United States should be based on mutual respect, not threats.

“The EU Commission remains ready to work in good faith. EU–US trade is unmatched and must be guided by mutual respect, not threats. We stand ready to defend our interests,” Šefčovič posted on X (formerly Twitter).

While Trump holds no formal role in the current U.S. administration, his remarks carry political weight as he continues his presidential campaign ahead of the 2024 election. The proposed tariff would significantly escalate trade tensions if implemented by a future administration.

The European Commission has not confirmed any retaliatory measures but reiterated its commitment to reaching a balanced and fair agreement with the United States.

Transatlantic trade between the EU and the U.S. remains one of the largest bilateral economic relationships globally, covering a wide range of industrial, agricultural, and technological sectors.