Trump: "If EU and Canada Retaliate, Higher Tariffs Will Be Imposed"

Remarks Made on Truth Social in the Early Morning of the 27th

U.S. President Donald Trump posted on the social networking service (SNS) Social Truth in the early morning of the 27th (local time). Photo by Trump Social Truth

U.S. President Donald Trump, who formalized a 25% tariff on foreign-made cars, threatened to impose even higher tariffs if the European Union (EU) and Canada take retaliatory measures against the U.S.

On the early morning of the 27th (local time), Trump posted on his social media platform Truth Social, which he created, stating, "If the EU cooperates with Canada to economically harm the United States, both countries will face much larger tariffs than currently planned to protect their closest friend (the U.S.) to date."

At the same time, in another post, he claimed, "The day of liberation for America is coming soon," adding, "For years, we have been virtually plundered by every country in the world, friend or foe alike." He emphasized, "But those days are over now. America First."

The day before, President Trump announced and signed an executive order to impose a 25% tariff on foreign-made cars and major parts starting April 3. Major automobile exporting countries targeted by this tariff, including Europe, Canada, South Korea, Japan, and Mexico, are deliberating on countermeasures.

Mark Carney, the new Prime Minister of Canada, condemned Trump's car tariff imposition as a "direct attack" and stated that Canada would take retaliatory measures to protect its interests. He hinted at the possibility of imposing retaliatory tariffs and said Canada would strongly navigate through the U.S. tariffs. However, he also added that he would soon have talks with President Trump.

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, issued a statement immediately after the tariff announcement, expressing "deep regret over the U.S. decision to impose tariffs on European car exports." She pointed out that "the automotive industry is a driving force creating innovation, competitiveness, and high-level jobs through deeply integrated supply chains on both sides of the Atlantic," and added, "We will assess this announcement along with other measures the U.S. is planning." This is interpreted as meaning the EU will review the comprehensive response after seeing the reciprocal tariffs the U.S. is expected to announce on April 2.

However, President von der Leyen also said, "The EU will protect its economic interests while continuing to seek solutions through negotiations," leaving open the possibility of talks. Given that negotiations with the U.S. are currently underway, her official remarks are seen as cautious.