The European Union is preparing for potential tariffs of up to 20-25% on all EU exports to the US, a move that could disrupt global trade and raise costs for US consumers. Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič will meet with EU ambassadors on Friday to discuss countermeasures worth €26 billion in response to US steel and aluminum tariffs. The EU has already imposed 25% tariffs on foreign-made cars, which will take effect on Wednesday. A meeting of the bloc's trade ministers is scheduled for next Monday in Luxembourg.
https://www.politico.eu/article/eu-to-bundle-response-to-trumps-auto-and-reciprocal-tariffs/European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned that the EU will retaliate against US tariffs, stating they have a strong plan in place if necessary. In contrast, US President Donald Trump views the tariff roll-out on Wednesday as "Liberation Day" for American consumers.
https://africanews.com/2025/04/01/european-commission-president-says-eu-has-strong-plan-against-new-us-tariffs/Germany's government spokesman Steffen Hebestreit stated that trade wars have costs for both sides, warning of potential expenses for Berlin as it is "ready and willing to negotiate at the European level with the United States" to avoid such disputes.
https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/cost-of-trade-war-can-become-expensive-for-both-sides-germany-to-us-8070234Many still hold on to the idea that cooperation with outside forces weakens national sovereignty, but in today's interconnected world, where economies are deeply intertwined and global challenges like climate change, cybercrime, and terrorism know no borders, this perspective is no longer practical or desirable.
https://www.manilatimes.net/2025/04/03/opinion/columns/a-more-pragmatic-view-of-sovereignty/2085250Greece is overhauling its military spending and personnel structure, with a focus on cooperation with France, Israel, and the US. The overhaul aims to address a top-heavy command structure and includes greater inclusion of local tech start-ups. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis recently met with Israeli defence officials and dismissed opposition calls to abandon plans to buy F-35 fighter jets in favour of European alternatives, describing it as a "long-term investment".
https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/04/02/greece-to-spend-25-billion-over-next-decade-on-hi-tech-overhaul-of-militaryThe Indian government has set up a control room to monitor US President Donald Trump's announcements regarding reciprocal tariffs against key trading partners, including India. Senior officials from ministries such as commerce and industry will be present for close watch of the announcements. The commerce ministry is working on four possible scenarios to assess the potential fallout of these tariffs, which could impact India's exports if duties are imposed at a country, sector or product level.
https://www.news18.com/india/control-room-to-monitor-trumps-tariff-announcements-sources-9284703.htmlIndia's electronics industry may face a 7.2% impact due to US tariffs, but sectors like petroleum, minerals, and garments are likely to be less affected. The country's tariffs remain consistent with the World Trade Organisation, which allows developing nations to retain higher tariffs in exchange for trade regulations that favor wealthy countries. Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's good relationship is expected to mitigate any damage from high tariffs. Experts believe that additional US duties on Canadian imports could make them less competitive, creating opportunities for Indian exports, particularly in sectors such as electrical machinery, auto components, pharma, and chemical.
https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/how-donald-trump-liberation-day-tariffs-may-impact-india-and-the-silver-lining-8066660#pfrom=home-ndtv_premiumHis Majesty King of Jordan met with representatives from Germany's government and industry leaders to discuss opportunities for investment and cooperation in areas such as energy, technology, agriculture, and financial services. The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ayman Safadi, Director Alaa Batayneh, and Ambassador Fayez Khouri, following a prior meeting with German Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck.
https://www.jordantimes.com/news/local/king-meets-representatives-german-companies-economic-institutionsUS Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer is set to address the nation regarding proposed tariffs on European goods in response to a long-standing dispute over aircraft subsidies. The announcement comes amid heightened tensions between the US and EU, with the Trump administration seeking to level the playing field for American plane manufacturers. Mr. Lighthizer's comments are expected to be closely watched by industry leaders and policymakers worldwide.
https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20250402IPR27601/new-tariffs-by-the-trump-administration-press-conference-thursday-9-00