Trump hits EU with new auto tariffs as troop withdrawal threats shake NATO
President Donald Trump on Friday escalated tensions with the European Union by announcing new tariffs on imported European cars and trucks, a move that came as his administration simultaneously revived the threat of a partial U.S. troop withdrawal from Europe-raising fresh concerns inside NATO about Washington’s long-term commitment to the alliance.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said tariffs on EU-made vehicles would rise to 25 percent starting next week, accusing the bloc of failing to comply with the transatlantic trade deal announced last summer. The president argued the move would push automakers to relocate production to the United States, saying vehicles built in U.S. plants would not face duties. The White House has framed the tariffs as part of a broader push to rebalance trade and boost domestic manufacturing.
Trump posted, “I am pleased to announce that, based on the fact the European Union is not complying with our fully agreed to Trade Deal, next week I will be increasing Tariffs charged to the European Union for Cars and Trucks coming into the United States. The Tariff will be increased to 25%. It is fully understood and agreed that, if they produce Cars and Trucks in U.S.A. Plants, there will be NO TARIFF. Many Automobile and Truck Plants are currently under construction, with over 100 Billion Dollars being invested, A RECORD in the History of Car and Truck Manufacturing. These Plants, staffed with American Workers, will be opening soon - There has never been anything like what is happening in America today! Thank you for your attention to this matter. President DONALD J. TRUMP”
The tariff announcement landed against the backdrop of growing strain between Washington and European allies over security and defense burden-sharing.
This week, Trump launched a fresh verbal attack on Germany’s leader, Chancellor Friedrich Merz, shortly after threatening to reduce the number of American troops on German soil. The president told reporters Thursday that U.S. troop presence in Spain and Italy could also be reduced. Trump has repeatedly criticized NATO members for falling short on defense commitments and for what he calls a lopsided reliance on U.S. military protection.
European officials have warned that renewed trade penalties and uncertainty over U.S. troop levels risk further destabilizing an already fragile transatlantic relationship.
This is a developing story and will be updated.
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