Trump threatens 200% tariffs on EU wines, spirits amid trade tensions

President Donald Trump has threatened to impose a 200% tariff on European wines, champagnes, and spirits in response to the European Union's planned 50% tariff on American whiskey. In a post on Truth Social, Trump described the EU as 'hostile and abusive' and stated that if the tariff on whiskey is not immediately removed, the U.S. will retaliate with significant tariffs on European alcoholic products. This threat follows a series of tariffs Trump has enacted on various countries, including a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports that went into effect recently. The EU has countered by announcing retaliatory tariffs covering a range of American goods, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen indicating their countermeasures match the value of U.S. tariffs. The escalating trade tensions have raised concerns among European spirits producers, who have urged the U.S. and EU to exclude their industry from these disputes. Trump's administration continues to navigate a complex landscape of international trade relations as it seeks to protect American industries.