President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that the United States will postpone a planned 50% tariff on European Union goods. Originally set to take effect on June 1, the new deadline will be July 9, giving both sides more time to negotiate.
This decision followed a phone call with Ursula von der Leyen, the president of the European Commission. Trump shared that von der Leyen expressed a strong desire to engage in serious negotiations. He emphasized that he had urged her to take action on this matter.
During a press briefing in Morristown, New Jersey, Trump stated, "I told anybody that would listen, they have to do that." He mentioned that von der Leyen committed to working quickly to find a resolution.
Just days prior, Trump had threatened to impose the tariffs, citing frustrations with the EU’s trade practices. He described the 27-member bloc as "very difficult to deal with" and indicated that talks had stalled.
The extension of the tariff deadline seems to have eased some tensions for now. Trump later posted on social media that he was pleased to agree to the new date. Von der Leyen responded by highlighting the importance of the trade relationship between the U.S. and Europe, stating that both sides are ready to advance discussions quickly and effectively.
This development marks a significant moment in U.S.-EU trade relations, as both leaders appear committed to finding common ground before the new deadline arrives.