Trump Announces 30% Tariffs on EU, Mexico Starting August

President Donald Trump has announced a 30% tariff on imports from the European Union and Mexico, set to take effect on August 1, citing their trade deficits as major threats to U.S. national security. Trump criticized Mexico for insufficient action against drug cartels and fentanyl flow despite some border cooperation, threatening to adjust tariffs if Mexico improves enforcement. The EU, having previously negotiated with the U.S., faces increased tariffs after talks failed to yield an agreement by the July 9 deadline, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasizing continued efforts toward a deal and warning of potential retaliatory measures. Trump’s tariffs are separate from existing sectoral tariffs and could disadvantage EU exports compared to those of neighboring Britain, which has a trade deal with the U.S. The European Council President Antonio Costa condemned the tariffs as inflationary and harmful to economic growth, expressing support for efforts to negotiate a fair agreement. Trump’s tariff strategy is part of his broader 2024 campaign focus on reshaping U.S. trade relations to address perceived long-term imbalances.