President Donald Trump stated that he had just learned the European Union proposed to expedite the scheduling of trade talks, calling it a positive signal. Media analysts noted that Trump rarely praises the EU. US stocks extended gains, with the S&P 500, Nasdaq, and Russell 2000 indices all briefly rising over 2% during the session.
On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump expressed encouragement over the EU’s move to accelerate trade negotiations. “I just learned that the EU has proposed to schedule talks as soon as possible. This is a positive signal, and I hope they will ultimately open European markets to the US,” he said. According to Xinhua News Agency, Trump announced on the 25th that, following a phone call with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, he agreed to delay the imposition of 50% tariffs on EU goods from June 1 to July 9. Earlier that day, von der Leyen posted on social media platform X that she had a “good call” with Trump but emphasized, “To reach a good deal, we need time—until July 9.” She added that the EU is prepared to advance negotiations with the US “swiftly and decisively.” On the 23rd, Trump threatened to impose 50% tariffs on EU imports starting June 1, significantly higher than the previously announced 20% “reciprocal tariffs,” sparking strong dissatisfaction from the EU and renewed market volatility. Media analysis highlighted that Trump seldom praises the EU, given his long-standing criticism of the bloc as a “conspiracy to exploit the US.” Following Trump’s latest remarks, US stocks surged, with the S&P 500, Nasdaq, and Russell 2000 indices all briefly gaining over 2%. The European Commission plans to focus its new trade strategy on key sectors targeted by Trump’s tariffs or threats, including metals, automobiles, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and civil aircraft. Additionally, the EU will continue addressing tariff and non-tariff barriers. Previously, the EU proposed a plan to reduce tariffs on multiple goods and collaborate on global challenges and joint investments, but the US rejected the offer, prompting Trump to threaten further tariff hikes. On Monday, EU member states were briefed on the latest developments after Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis held calls with US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo and Trade Representative Katherine Tai. Risk Warning and Disclaimer: Markets involve risks; invest with caution. This article does not constitute personal investment advice nor considers individual users’ specific investment objectives, financial situations, or needs. Users should assess whether any opinions, views, or conclusions herein align with their circumstances. Investments made accordingly are at the investor’s own risk.
