In a statement posted on his social media platform on Friday, Trump said he was “pleased to announce” that the new tariff rates would take effect as early as next week. The move signals a sharp escalation in trade tensions between the United States and the European bloc, particularly in the automotive sector, which represents a significant portion of transatlantic trade.

This announcement comes despite an agreement reached in July 2025, under which both sides had settled on a 15% tariff rate on European-made vehicles entering the U.S. market. The deal was intended to ease long-standing trade disputes and stabilize economic relations between the two partners.

However, Trump now claims that the European Union has not adhered to the terms of that agreement, although he did not provide specific details on how the deal was violated. His administration argues that the higher tariffs are necessary to protect American manufacturers and address what it describes as unfair trade practices.

European officials have not yet issued a formal response, but analysts warn that such a move could trigger retaliatory measures from the EU, potentially leading to a broader trade conflict. Automakers on both sides of the Atlantic are also expected to feel the impact, as increased tariffs could raise vehicle prices and disrupt supply chains.

The decision underscores the fragile nature of international trade agreements and highlights ongoing disagreements between Washington and Brussels over market access and regulatory standards.