US President Donald Trump has announced a sharp increase in tariffs on cars and trucks imported from the European Union, raising them to 25% from next week in a move that risks escalating transatlantic trade tensions.
The decision, unveiled on Friday, was justified by Trump on the grounds that the EU had failed to comply with the terms of a previously agreed trade deal, though no specific violations were cited.
Under that agreement, the EU had removed tariffs on US imports in exchange for a 15% levy on most European goods entering the American market, dw.com reports.
The latest tariff hike comes at a sensitive geopolitical moment, with strains between Washington and European capitals already heightened by disagreements linked to the ongoing Iran conflict.
Trump has repeatedly criticized European NATO allies for what he describes as insufficient support, while several European countries have resisted facilitating US military operations.
Despite the White House’s stance, the legal basis for imposing the new tariffs remains unclear.
Earlier this year, the US Supreme Court ruled that Trump had exceeded his authority by using emergency powers to introduce sweeping tariffs, raising fresh questions over the legitimacy of the latest measures.
European officials reacted swiftly, with senior lawmakers warning that the move undermines trust between longstanding allies.
Calls for a firm response have been coupled with appeals to de-escalate tensions and return to negotiations, particularly given the potential economic impact on both European manufacturers and American consumers.
Industry leaders have also voiced concern, cautioning that the tariffs could impose significant costs on the automotive sector at a time of global economic uncertainty, while further straining already fragile US–EU relations.
