The necessity of negotiations with the USA noted in the European Union
As a result of the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling on February 20, President Donald Trump announced an increase in tariffs for all countries to 15%. This decision followed the court's ruling that deemed many tariffs imposed by his administration illegal. Trump announced this on February 21 via the social network Truth Social.
He wrote: "I am raising the tariff to 15% for all countries, as many of them have been robbing the USA for decades with impunity (before I came to power!). This is a completely legal step." According to the president, in the coming months, his team will be developing new legally justified tariffs, as reported by DW.
According to the Supreme Court ruling, Trump exceeded his authority by citing the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act when imposing tariffs against various U.S. trading partners, including European Union countries. The court deemed most tariffs illegal, including the 25% on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China.
At a press conference, Trump characterized the court's decision as "deeply disappointing" and criticized the judges, calling them "a disgrace to the nation," as they allegedly "succumbed to foreign interests."
The 10% tariffs that Trump imposed after the court's decision are now being raised to 15% and will take effect on February 24. These measures will remain in place for 150 days, after which Congressional approval will be required for their extension.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed hope on February 21, prior to the announcement of the increase, that the tariff burden on the country's economy would decrease following the Supreme Court's decision. He noted that negotiations with the USA are necessary so that "German companies can reclaim billions." Merz stated his intention to visit Washington with a coordinated European position in early March.
Lars Klingbeil, Germany's Finance Minister and Vice Chancellor, also commented on the situation. He pointed out that despite the court ruling, sectoral tariffs remain in important areas such as automotive and metallurgy. "The situation remains uncertain," he added in an interview with the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung.
Klingbeil emphasized that the tariffs are harming both the German and U.S. economies, but American citizens are suffering the most.
Photo www
