Donald Trump has decided to postpone the implementation of a 50% tariff on goods coming from the European Union until July 9. This delay comes as both sides work to negotiate a trade agreement. The president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, reached out to Trump, asking for more time to finalize a deal.
Last Friday, Trump had threatened to impose these tariffs starting June 1, which raised concerns about a potential trade war. European leaders were prepared to respond with their own measures if the tariffs took effect. However, following a phone call between Trump and von der Leyen, the deadline was extended to allow for further discussions.
Speaking to reporters before boarding Air Force One, Trump shared that von der Leyen expressed a desire to engage in serious negotiations. He mentioned that they had a productive conversation and agreed on the new date for the tariffs. Trump said, “We had a very nice call and I agreed to move it. I believe July 9th would be the date.”
The decision to delay the tariffs appears to ease tensions for now. Just days earlier, Trump had expressed frustration about the negotiations, stating that discussions were “going nowhere” and that dealing with the EU was “very difficult.”
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump noted that he was pleased to grant the extension to July 9. He emphasized the importance of working together to find a resolution.
The backdrop to this situation includes Trump’s recent imposition of tariffs on various trade partners, which has led to a series of retaliatory measures. While he has backed down from some aggressive trade stances, the EU remains a focal point of his trade policy, with Trump previously accusing the bloc of unfair practices against the U.S.
EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic responded to the tariff threat by stating that EU-U.S. trade should be based on mutual respect, not threats, and that the EU is ready to defend its interests.
As negotiations continue, both sides are hopeful that they can reach an agreement before the new deadline arrives.