Berlin: Global leaders are criticizing US President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs.
The tariffs affect nearly every country, sparking diplomatic and economic tensions.
Many leaders argue these tariffs will harm both global and US economies.
Several nations are planning responses, including possible countermeasures.
Diplomatic relations may be strained due to these new trade barriers.
Germany Condemns Tariffs
Germany’s outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz called the tariffs “fundamentally wrong.”
He warned they would hurt both the world economy and the US.
Scholz emphasized the importance of cooperation over confrontation.
Germany remains committed to defending its economic interests.
The country is considering how to respond to the new measures.
UK Takes a Measured Approach
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer promised a “cool and calm” response.
He acknowledged that the tariffs will impact Britain’s economy.
Starmer said Trump is acting for his country, as is his right.
The UK will now act in its own best interest.
Business leaders in Downing Street were briefed on economic strategies.
France Criticizes Trump’s Actions
France strongly condemned Trump’s decision to impose tariffs.
The French government called his actions an “imperialist posture.”
A spokesperson accused Trump of wanting to be “master of the world.”
This marked an unusually personal attack on the US president.
France is preparing its official response to the trade measures.
Belgium Warns the US
Belgian Deputy Prime Minister Maxime Prévot issued a stark warning.
He said the US is “playing with matches” and may “get burned.”
Prévot called the tariffs a “regrettable” attack on global trade.
He criticized the US for targeting its closest trade partners.
Belgium urges America to reconsider these economic policies.
Italy’s Immediate Response
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni cleared her schedule Thursday.
She focused entirely on responding to the economic fallout.
Italy sees these tariffs as highly damaging to its industries.
The government is analyzing how to counter their impact.
Meloni may soon announce specific economic measures.
Norway Raises NATO Concerns
Norway’s foreign minister voiced concerns about the tariffs’ legality.
Espen Barth Eide referenced NATO’s treaty on economic cooperation.
He warned that targeting allies could violate the alliance’s agreements.
Norway raised the issue at a NATO meeting in Brussels.
The country urges members to uphold economic stability.
South Africa Calls for Trade Talks
South Africa labeled the tariffs “punitive” and damaging.
Officials stressed the need for a new US trade agreement.
They called for urgent negotiations to ensure long-term trade stability.
South Africa believes a bilateral deal is necessary.
The government hopes to secure fairer trade policies.
Possible Economic Impact
Stock markets may react negatively to these tariffs.
Businesses worldwide could face disruptions in trade.
Consumers may see rising prices due to increased costs.
Industries dependent on exports could suffer significant losses.
The global economic landscape remains uncertain.
What Happens Next?
Countries may introduce retaliatory tariffs on US goods.
Diplomatic relations between nations could become strained.
The global economy might slow due to trade disruptions.
US allies could seek alternative trade agreements.
Future negotiations will determine the long-term impact.
