World Leaders Criticize U.S. Tariffs Amid Trade War Concerns

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni criticized tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, labeling them as 'wrong' and detrimental to the U.S. economy. She emphasized the need for cooperation with the U.S. to prevent a trade war, which she believes could weaken the West in favor of other global players. Other European leaders, including Spain's Pedro Sánchez and Ireland's Micheál Martin, echoed Meloni's concerns, expressing a commitment to protecting their economies while seeking negotiations with the U.S. In Australia, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the tariffs as unfriendly and warned that Americans would ultimately bear the costs. Meanwhile, Brazil's Congress moved to counter the tariffs through new legislation, reflecting widespread discontent among U.S. trading partners. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent cautioned against retaliatory measures, suggesting they could lead to escalation in trade tensions.