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EU Leaders Unite Against Trump's €93 Billion Tariff Threats

1/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

EU leaders prepare a response to U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff threats, with an emergency meeting this week on retaliation including €93 billion in tariffs.
Trump announced a 10% tariff on several European countries, escalating tensions.
French President Emmanuel Macron advocates activating the EU's 'anti-coercion instrument'.
The EU Parliament is likely to suspend work on a recent U.S. trade deal while talks continue.

History

Historical Context

In March 2018, President Trump imposed tariffs of 25% on steel and 10% on aluminum imports, igniting global trade tensions. The European Union retaliated with tariffs on $3 billion worth of U.S. goods, including agricultural products. This escalation echoes the 2002 steel tariffs under President Bush, which also prompted EU countermeasures, highlighting ongoing challenges in transatlantic trade relations.

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Story summary

EU leaders prepare a response to U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff threats, with an emergency meeting this week on retaliation including €93 billion in tariffs.
Trump announced a 10% tariff on several European countries, escalating tensions.
French President Emmanuel Macron advocates activating the EU's 'anti-coercion instrument'.
The EU Parliament is likely to suspend work on a recent U.S. trade deal while talks continue.

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