Trump’s Announcement: Agricultural Tariffs Take Effect on April 2
U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that starting April 2, new tariffs on agricultural importswill take effect. Addressing American farmers, he wrote:
“To all great American farmers: Get ready to produce a lot of agricultural products for sale in the United States.”
This move aims to boost domestic production while reducing reliance on foreign agricultural goods, impacting imports from Europe, Canada, and China.
Accusing Europe: “They Spent More on Russian Oil than on Ukraine”
Trump also targeted the European Union, accusing it of spending more on Russian oil and gas than on Ukraine’s defense.
His remarks come amid growing tensions between the U.S. and its allies, with Washington urging Europe to increase military aid to Kyiv while European leaders remain divided on the issue.
Meloni Responds: “A Trade War Benefits No One”
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni commented on Trump’s decision in an interview with Rai1, stating that a trade war benefits no one, not even the United States.
She confirmed that she has already discussed the matter with Trump and that the issue will be a key topic in upcoming EU-U.S. negotiations. Meloni vowed to defend Italian interests and prevent a commercial standoff that could harm Made in Italy exports.
On Ukraine, Meloni stressed the importance of maintaining Western unity, warning against divisions that could weaken diplomatic efforts to achieve peace.
Trump Signs New Tariffs Against China: Rates Rise to 20%
Alongside agricultural tariffs, Trump has doubled duties on Chinese imports to 20%. The White House justified the move by blaming Beijing for failing to take “adequate steps” to curb the illicit drug trade, particularly the trafficking of fentanyl, which has caused thousands of deaths in the U.S.
China responded swiftly, announcing retaliatory tariffs of 15% on American goods, including poultry, wheat, cotton, and corn.
Canada Strikes Back: 25% Tariffs on U.S. Goods
Canada also retaliated, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stating that Ottawa will impose 25% tariffs on $155 billion worth of U.S. goods.
Trudeau condemned Trump’s measures as unjustified, vowing that Canada will not stand idly by.
What’s your take on this new trade war? Leave a comment below and join the discussion!
