France’s Macron Condemns Tariffs as 'Blackmail' at Global Trade Summit

At an international conference in Seville, French President Emmanuel Macron condemned tariffs imposed by powerful nations as a form of 'blackmail' rather than legitimate trade tools, calling for a restoration of freedom and equity in global trade. Although he did not explicitly mention the United States or President Donald Trump, Macron's remarks came amid ongoing EU-U.S. trade negotiations and in the context of sweeping tariffs introduced by Trump earlier in the year, which were later eased temporarily. Macron urged reforms to the World Trade Organization to better address global goals like reducing inequality and combating climate change. He highlighted the detrimental effects of these tariffs on developing countries, warning of potentially catastrophic impacts on nations just beginning their economic growth. Macron also criticized the contradiction of escalating trade conflicts while expecting Europe to increase defense spending. His overall stance emphasizes the need for global dialogue to realign trade practices toward fairness and support for emerging economies.