🌍 Trump's Tariffs Spark Global Backlash: How World Leaders Are Responding 🚨By Thomson Reuters

In a move that sent shockwaves through global markets 📉, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a sweeping 10% baseline tariff on all imports to the United States 🇺🇸, with additional levies on key trading partners. While Canada 🍁 and Mexico 🇲🇽 were spared from the new tariff, existing duties of up to 25% on select goods remain in place due to ongoing disputes over border control and fentanyl trafficking. The response from world leaders has been swift and pointed, with many vowing to fight back ⚔️.

🇨🇦 Canada: "We Will Fight These Tariffs"

Prime Minister Mark Carney acknowledged that key aspects of Canada-U.S. trade relations were preserved but condemned the continued tariffs on steel, aluminum, and fentanyl-related products.

"We are going to fight these tariffs with countermeasures ⚖️, we are going to protect our workers 👷, and we are going to build the strongest economy in the G7."

🇧🇷 Brazil: "Considering WTO Action"

The Brazilian government expressed deep disappointment over the tariffs, stating:

"The Brazilian government regrets the decision… and is evaluating all possible actions to ensure reciprocity in bilateral trade, including resorting to the World Trade Organization 🏛️ in defense of legitimate national interests."

🇦🇺 Australia: "This Is Not the Act of a Friend"

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese strongly criticized the move, calling it illogical and damaging to the U.S.-Australia relationship:

"Today's decision will add to uncertainty in the global economy and push up costs for American households 🏡💰."

🇰🇷 South Korea: "A Trade War Reality"

With the escalating trade war looming, South Korea’s acting president Han Duck-soo emphasized the urgency of the situation:

"The government must pour all its capabilities to overcome the trade crisis 🔥."

🇨🇳 China: "No Winners in Trade Wars"

China’s commerce ministry vowed to take countermeasures:

"There are no winners in trade wars, and there is no way out for protectionism 🚫. China urges the U.S. to immediately lift unilateral tariffs and resolve differences through dialogue on an equal footing."

🇪🇺 Europe: "A Major Blow to the Global Economy"

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned of a protectionist spiral:

"Uncertainty will spiral and trigger the rise of further protectionism. The consequences will be dire for millions of people around the globe 🌎💥."

She further stated that the EU was already preparing countermeasures, particularly against steel tariffs, and would escalate its response if negotiations failed.

🌏 Other Global Leaders React

• 🇳🇿 New Zealand Trade Minister Todd McClay: "New Zealand’s interests are best served in a world where trade flows freely… We will be speaking with the U.S. administration to understand the full impact of these tariffs."

• 🇪🇸 Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez: "Spain will protect its companies and workers and remain committed to an open world."

• 🇸🇪 Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson: "We don’t want a trade war; we want to restore cooperation."

• 🇨🇭 Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter: "Switzerland will determine its next steps while upholding free trade and international law."

• 🇮🇪 Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin: "Tariffs benefit no one. Our priority is protecting Irish jobs and the economy."

• 🇮🇹 Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni: "We will work towards an agreement to prevent a trade war that weakens the West."

• 🇪🇺 European Parliament Leader Manfred Weber: "Donald Trump's tariffs attack fair trade out of fear and harm both sides of the Atlantic."

• 🇨🇴 Colombian President Gustavo Petro: "We will only raise tariffs on U.S. goods if they take away our jobs."

🔮 The Road Ahead

As global leaders strategize their next moves, countermeasures and diplomatic negotiations are already underway. With international markets on edge, the long-term effects of Trump’s latest trade policy remain to be seen. One thing is certain: the world is watching 👀, and it’s ready to respond.