President Trump threatened to raise tariffs on the European Union to "much higher levels" if the bloc does not approve and implement a trade agreement by July 4.
10:56 AM
President Donald Trump said Thursday that the European Union must officially approve and implement a trade deal by July 4 or face increased tariffs, according to a statement posted on his Truth Social platform.
Trump said he had spoken with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in what he described as a "great call." During the conversation, the two discussed Iran's nuclear program, with Trump stating that both sides are "completely united that Iran can never have a Nuclear Weapon."
On the trade matter, Trump said he has been "waiting patiently for the EU to fulfill their side of the Historic Trade Deal we agreed in Turnberry, Scotland," which he called "the largest Trade Deal, ever." He said a promise was made that the EU would reduce its tariffs to zero as part of the agreement.
"I agreed to give her until our Country's 250th Birthday or, unfortunately, their Tariffs would immediately jump to much higher levels," Trump wrote, referring to July 4, 2026, the 250th anniversary of American independence.
Trump's deadline comes after he had previously threatened to increase tariffs on EU cars and trucks to 25 percent. The Turnberry agreement was struck between Trump and the EU earlier in 2026.
Von der Leyen characterized her conversation with Trump as a "positive" exchange, according to reports. The EU has faced challenges in reaching agreement on the terms of the Turnberry accord.
The administration launched a digital claims system Monday after the Supreme Court ruled in February that the president lacked legal authority to impose the tariffs.
President Trump lifted a 10% tariff on Scottish whisky following King Charles III and Queen Camilla's state visit to the White House.
President Trump said his administration is studying a possible reduction of troops deployed in Germany, citing an ongoing dispute with NATO allies.
President Trump extended a temporary truce with Iran pending submission of a unified proposal, while keeping U.S. military blockade in place.
EU ambassadors backed the loan after Hungary lifted its veto. Final approval expected Thursday following pipeline restart.
US officials negotiate memorandum of understanding with Iran as Trump renews bombing threats, while Tehran considers the proposal through Pakistani mediators.
