Von der Leyen and Trump discuss tariffs: pause activated

Donald Trump's threat to bring forward the application of tariffs against the European Union will not be carried out. After a discussion with Ursula von der Leyen, the pause remains in effect until 9 July.

In a typical display of bravado, Donald Trump had threatened to enact 50% tariffs against the European Union as early as 1 June. Fortunately, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, appears to have found the right arguments to maintain the pause until 9 July. The POTUS himself made the announcement, stating that Ms von der Leyen had called him while he was flying aboard Air Force One. The White House occupant specified, "We had a very good conversation and I agreed to move the date to 9 July." He added that the EU wanted "serious negotiations". For her part, the President stated she had a "good call" with Trump, also confirming that rapid and decisive negotiations would soon take place. Consequently, the two are set to meet quickly in an attempt to "find a solution".

(MH with Olivier Duquesne – Source: Le Soir with AFP – Picture: © picture alliance / AA | EU Commission/Pool)