Danish Premier issues threat to Trump if he imposes tariffs

(MENAFN) Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned on Monday that the European Union would be forced to take strong action if the US moves forward with imposing tariffs on EU exports. US President Donald trump has threatened to levy tariffs unless the EU significantly reduces its trade deficit by increasing purchases of American oil and gas. While Trump has not specified which goods will be targeted or the exact tariff rates, he reiterated the threat on Friday, accusing the EU of unfair trade practices.

Speaking ahead of an informal EU leaders' meeting in Brussels, Frederiksen expressed opposition to a trade war but stated that the EU would have no choice but to retaliate harshly if the US imposes tariffs. She added that such measures would affect both US and European businesses and workers. French President Emmanuel Macron, Luxembourg’s Prime Minister Luc Frieden, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk echoed similar concerns, stressing the need for the EU to stand up for itself against potential trade attacks.

Trump has already acted on previous tariff threats, including a 25% duty on imports from Mexico and Canada, and a 10% tariff on Chinese goods, citing migration and drug-related concerns. In response, Canada has imposed a 25% tariff on US goods, and Mexico has signaled retaliatory measures, while China plans to challenge Trump’s tariffs at the World Trade Organization.

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