President Donald Trump’s decision to impose sweeping tariffs on all imports into the U.S. has drawn sharp criticism from world leaders, with many warning of dire economic consequences. The European Commission’s chief, Ursula von der Leyen, condemned the move, calling it a “major blow to the world economy” and stressing that it would trigger uncertainty and economic hardship for millions globally.
President Trump’s new trade policy, set to take effect on April 5, includes a universal 10% tariff on all imported goods. Additionally, about 60 countries face even steeper tariffs beginning April 9. President Trump justified the measures as necessary retaliation against what he described as unfair trade policies, stating that he had been “very kind” in his decisions.
The European Union will be hit particularly hard, with a 20% tariff on its exports to the U.S. Von der Leyen signaled the EU’s readiness to respond with countermeasures if negotiations fail, warning, “If you take on one of us, you take on all of us.” Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, a Trump ally, criticized the move but expressed hope for a diplomatic resolution to avoid a trade war. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin also voiced strong opposition, calling for open trade policies.
China, one of the most heavily affected nations, will face a combined 54% tariff on its goods. Beijing has promised “resolute countermeasures” and urged the U.S. to immediately reverse its decision. Similarly, South Korea’s acting president Han Duck-soo acknowledged the global trade war as a “reality” and pledged efforts to mitigate its impact.
Japan and Thailand have also expressed concern, with Japan warning of possible violations of World Trade Organization rules. Meanwhile, Israel, having previously scrapped all tariffs on U.S. imports, was caught off guard by a 17% levy. Brazilian lawmakers responded by passing an Economic Reciprocity Law to counter the U.S. tariffs, while Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney vowed to introduce countermeasures, highlighting the significant impact on the Canadian auto industry.
Despite global backlash, the White House remains firm, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warning against retaliation, stating, “If you retaliate, there will be escalation.” As the situation unfolds, the world braces for potential economic instability and strained international trade relations.
