WASHINGTON, May 7 - U.S. President Donald Trump said he had a "great call" with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Thursday and will allow the European Union until July 4 to carry out its side of a trade agreement before raising U.S. tariffs to significantly higher levels.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump reiterated his expectation that the EU would meet a commitment made under the agreement the two leaders reached in Turnberry, Scotland. He wrote: "I’ve been waiting patiently for the EU to fulfill their side of the Historic Trade Deal we agreed in Turnberry, Scotland, the largest Trade Deal, ever!"
Trump said a promise was made that the EU would reduce its tariffs to zero and that he had agreed to give von der Leyen until the United States' 250th birthday to follow through. He added: "A promise was made that the EU would deliver their side of the Deal and, as per Agreement, cut their Tariffs to ZERO! I agreed to give her until our Country’s 250th Birthday or, unfortunately, their Tariffs would immediately jump to much higher levels."
The president had earlier, on Friday, threatened to raise duties on European-made cars and trucks to 25% this week from the current 15% level, citing noncompliance by the EU with the terms of the deal struck in Scotland last July.
Trump also noted that the two leaders discussed Iran during their call. He said they agreed that Tehran must never be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon.
Context and implications
The president's statement combines a diplomatic timetable with a direct enforcement threat tied to tariff policy. He framed the July 4 deadline as a final window for the EU to implement tariff reductions specified in the Turnberry agreement. The notice specifically highlighted potential increases in U.S. duties on automobiles and trucks if the EU does not comply.
While the president characterized the phone call as "great," his public warning also signals a firm stance on trade enforcement and a readiness to adjust tariff levels quickly should he determine the EU has not met its commitments.
Direct quotes from the president
"I’ve been waiting patiently for the EU to fulfill their side of the Historic Trade Deal we agreed in Turnberry, Scotland, the largest Trade Deal, ever!"
"A promise was made that the EU would deliver their side of the Deal and, as per Agreement, cut their Tariffs to ZERO! I agreed to give her until our Country’s 250th Birthday or, unfortunately, their Tariffs would immediately jump to much higher levels."
What was discussed
- Trade commitments under the Turnberry agreement and a July 4 deadline for EU compliance.
- Potential U.S. tariff increases on EU cars and trucks - a move previously flagged to raise duties from 15% to 25%.
- Security concerns regarding Iran, with both leaders reportedly agreeing that Tehran must not obtain a nuclear weapon.