Global Leaders Respond Variously to Trump's 'Liberation Day' Tariffs
President Donald Trump’s announcement of ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs has elicited a range of responses from global leaders, with some expressing concern and others planning countermeasures.
On Wednesday, President Donald Trump unveiled his ‘Liberation Day’ tariff plan from the Rose Garden, establishing a 10% baseline tariff on imports alongside reciprocal tariffs based on what each nation imposes on U.S. goods. The move, aimed at boosting domestic job growth and encouraging foreign investment in the U.S., has stirred a variety of reactions worldwide.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen labeled the tariffs a ‘major blow to the world economy’ and hinted at unspecified ‘countermeasures.’ Similarly, China’s Foreign Ministry warned against the dangers of trade wars, with Beijing also planning retaliatory actions. China, already facing a 20% tariff earlier in the year, now confronts a 34% reciprocal tariff in addition to the baseline.
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba acknowledged the significant impact of the tariffs on U.S.-Japan relations and the global economy, pledging to protect his nation’s interests. Meanwhile, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, despite facing a lower reciprocal tariff, expressed intentions to negotiate their removal, emphasizing a refusal to engage in a detrimental economic race.
Canada and Mexico, while exempt from reciprocal tariffs, are hit with a 25% tariff on goods, with Canada also facing a 10% energy tariff. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney promised to counter these tariffs, while Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum plans to unveil a comprehensive response program.
U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, while acknowledging Trump’s mandate, kept all options open for response, focusing on negotiating an economic prosperity deal with the U.S. In a preemptive move, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lifted all tariffs on U.S. goods, yet faced a 17% reciprocal tariff from Trump, prompting analysis and discussions on potential responses within Israel’s finance ministry.
The diverse reactions underscore the complex international dynamics at play as countries navigate the implications of Trump’s tariff strategy.