Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will impose a 30% tariff on all imports from the European Union and Mexico, beginning August 1, intensifying trade tensions ahead of the 2025 election season.

Trump made the announcement through letters addressed to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, which he shared publicly on Truth Social, his social media platform.

In his letter to Sheinbaum, Trump acknowledged Mexico’s efforts in border security but criticized them as “not enough.” He warned that additional economic pressure was necessary to protect American jobs and industries.

Regarding the EU, Trump offered a potential reprieve: if European companies shift manufacturing operations to the U.S., they may avoid the steep tariffs. However, he issued a stern warning against retaliation.

“If the EU or Mexico responds by raising their tariffs, then whatever number they choose to raise them by will be added to the 30% we charge,” Trump declared.

The move has sent shockwaves through diplomatic and economic circles. EU officials were reportedly seeking a preliminary agreement to avoid such tariffs, but negotiations appear to have stalled.

Analysts warn that these tariffs could disrupt global trade, increase consumer prices, and spark retaliatory measures, potentially escalating into a full-scale trade war reminiscent of the Trump administration’s earlier confrontations with China.