As global markets reel from new US tariff announcements, President Donald Trump made it clear there would be no pause on tariffs during ongoing trade talks. While speaking at the White House on Monday during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump said, “We’re not looking at that.” He confirmed that the US would push forward with its trade agenda.
Focus on Fair Trade Deals
Trump said the US planned to strike fair trade agreements with multiple nations. “We have many countries that are to negotiate deals with us, and they’re going to be fair deals,” he said. He further warned that some of these nations would face heavy tariffs. “In certain cases, they’re going to be paying substantial tariffs. They’ll be fair deals.”
Trump Warns China Over Tariff Retaliation
Next, Trump took aim at China. He criticised Beijing for imposing retaliatory tariffs despite earlier discussions. He issued a clear warning: “If that tariff isn’t removed by tomorrow at 12 o’clock, we’re putting a 50 per cent on above the tariffs that we put on.”
Trump accused past US administrations of allowing China to become wealthy at America’s expense. Notably, China had recently imposed a 34% retaliatory tariff on American goods.
“We Have One Shot At This”
Trump explained that his goal was to correct deep-rooted trade imbalances, which he blamed for the US’s massive debt. “I have a great relationship with President Xi. I hope it’s going to stay that way,” he said. Still, he added, “I have great respect for China, but they can’t do this.”
He insisted the moment was crucial: “We’re just going to have one shot at this, and no other president is going to do this… it’s an honour to do it because we have been just destroyed.”
Tariffs Could Be Permanent or Negotiated
When asked whether the tariffs might be permanent or open to negotiation, Trump replied, “They can both be true. There could be permanent tariffs, and there could also be negotiations.”
US to Cut Off Unfair Trading Partners
Trump said the US would only continue trading with nations that offer fair terms. “We’re going to get fair deals and good deals with every country — and if we don’t, we’re going to have nothing to do with them,” he stated.
Strong Criticism of the European Union
Trump also targeted the European Union’s trade policies. He claimed the EU was created to gain a trade advantage over the US. “The EU has been very tough over the years. It was formed to do damage to the United States in trade,” he said.
He highlighted trade imbalances in the automotive sector. “They’re sending millions and millions of cars into the US, but we don’t have a car that’s been sold to the European Union or other places,” he noted. Additionally, Trump said the EU blocked US agricultural goods.
EU Open to Talks, But Ready to Retaliate
In response, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed a willingness to negotiate. On X (formerly Twitter), she wrote, “Europe is ready to negotiate with the US. We have offered zero-for-zero tariffs for industrial goods. Because we’re always ready for a good deal.”
However, she also warned of countermeasures. “We’re also prepared to respond with countermeasures. And protect ourselves against indirect effects through trade diversion.”