Donald Trump declared on Monday that the European Union’s proposal for a complete and reciprocal tariff exemption on industrial products, including cars, was not sufficient to lift American customs duties.
"No, it’s not sufficient," Trump stated, responding to the proposal announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during a media interaction at the White House.
"The European Union has treated us very, very badly," he added, referencing his announcement last week of a broad protectionist offensive, including a 20% tariff on European products set to take effect on April 9.
Trump asserted that the trade deficit the United States has with the EU would "disappear quickly" due to increased energy purchases from European countries.
"They need to buy and commit to purchasing an amount equivalent to this trade deficit in energy," Trump continued.
"We have proposed zero tariffs on industrial goods. Europe is always ready to make a good deal with the United States," Ursula von der Leyen stated at a press conference in Brussels earlier on Monday.
However, the President of the European Commission warned, "We are also prepared to respond with countermeasures and defend our interests against Trump’s trade offensive."
