Washington – Arab Canada News

U.S. President Donald Trump has escalated his trade rhetoric toward allies, threatening potential additional tariffs on both Canada and the European Union should his administration determine that their policies or trade responses cause “economic harm” to the United States.

In a statement made on Tuesday evening, Trump said:

“We are closely monitoring the actions of Canada and the European Union. If they take steps that harm the U.S. economy, we will impose higher tariffs quickly.”

Response to potential retaliatory measures

This statement comes after Canada announced its intention to consider retaliatory measures in response to Trump’s recent decision to impose a 25% tariff on imports of foreign cars, a decision that has sparked widespread criticism within Canada and the European Union.

Escalating tone ahead of sensitive negotiations

These statements mark a new escalation in the growing trade war between the United States and some of its traditional allies, at a time when Western governments are seeking a common position to protect their national industries from strict U.S. trade policies.

Canadian and European concerns

Trump's threat has raised a wave of concern in economic and political circles, particularly in Canada, which is the United States' number one trading partner in the automotive sector, where officials fear the impact of any additional tariffs on jobs, investments, and supply chains.

Trump defends his policy

Trump defended his approach by stating that these tariffs are aimed at protecting American workers and national industries from unfair practices, emphasizing that “America will not stand idly by if others decide to exploit it economically,” as he put it.