Summary
Trump threatened “far larger” tariffs on the EU and Canada if they unite to harm the U.S. after announcing a 25% tariff on foreign-made cars and parts, effective April 2 and May respectively.
The tariffs aim to boost U.S. car production but may inflate prices by $5k-$10k per vehicle, harming both U.S. and foreign automakers.
Canada condemned the move as a “direct attack,” while the EU signaled potential retaliation.
Global markets reacted negatively, with car stocks dropping amid fears of escalating trade tensions.
They’re increasing trade between Canada and the EU because of the tariffs he’s imposing. If that causes “economic harm” to the US, that’s not their problem and stoger tariffs are going to make the problem worse for the US, not better. It’s like Trump really doesn’t understand what tariffs actually are.
Someone like 40 years ago told him what they are. He did not understand and keep repeating the mistake.
He is genuinely stupid. He’s infuriated because people push back.
Every time he escalates you know you’re on the right track.
Also if they can mostly or completely replace trade with the US, which is far easier when the US is fucking over nearly every trade partner, then they will be completely unaffected by US tariffs. So how is this even a threat? “I’m charging Americans double for your maple syrup for no reason. If you don’t buy my whiskey, I will charge triple!” Cool, I’m definitely not going to buy your whiskey now, and I’m going to sell my syrup to someone who also stopped buying syrup from you while I buy their whiskey and also make my own. You can sit over there and just pretend like your tariffs are a threat and buy your own whiskey and make your own syrup. IDGAF.