Global Trade Tensions Escalate as Trump Imposes Tariffs, India and EU Respond

The European Union clarified its stance on US tariffs, stating that EU goods entering the US will face a flat 15% rate, including automobiles and components. This cap applies even if Washington raises duties on sensitive items like semiconductors and pharmaceuticals. The TRUMP administration confirmed new tariffs won't affect goods already in transit before Thursday's deadline, though a 40% penalty awaits shipments rerouted to circumvent duties.

India sharply criticized President Trump's threat to hike tariffs on its exports in retaliation for Russian oil purchases. New Delhi dismissed the warning as baseless, vowing to defend its economic interests. "India is not only buying massive amounts of Russian Oil, they are then selling it on the Open Market for big profits," Trump claimed on Truth Social, linking the trade dispute to geopolitical tensions over Ukraine.

Trade frictions extended to North America as Trump signed orders imposing 35% tariffs on Canada and variable rates up to 40% on dozens of trading partners. China identified these demands as a major obstacle in ongoing trade negotiations, signaling widening economic fractures.