Washington: The US will impose 30% tariffs on the EU and Mexico starting August 1, President Donald Trump announced on Saturday. In a post on Truth Social, Trump shared separate letters addressed to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, announcing a 30% tariff on goods bound for the US from Europe and Mexico.

According to Anadolu Agency, Trump warned in both letters that if the EU or Mexico retaliates with higher tariffs, any increase would be added on top of the 30% already imposed. In his letter to Sheinbaum, Trump acknowledged Mexico's efforts in reducing the flow of undocumented migrants and fentanyl into the US but criticized the country for not doing enough to prevent North America from becoming a 'Narco-Trafficking Playground.'

Trump's letter to the European Commission president indicated that the US has had ample time to discuss its trading relationship with the EU. He stated the need to move away from long-term trade deficits, which he attributed to the EU's tariff and non-tariff policies and trade barriers. Trump noted that the trade relationship with the EU has been lacking reciprocity.

The announcement puts US-EU trade talks at risk, as the bloc had aimed to finalize a comprehensive trade deal this month. Earlier this week, Trump unveiled a new wave of tariffs affecting countries such as Japan, South Korea, Canada, and Brazil, while also imposing a 50% tariff on copper imports.