German Ambassador to the United Kingdom Miguel Berger has strongly criticized the latest round of reciprocal tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, calling them "the biggest assault on global trade since World War II." Berger made the comments as global reactions continue to mount against the United States’ evolving trade policies.

"We could laugh about it [the tariffs], but it's devastating," Berger stated, expressing alarm over the broader implications of the tariffs on international commerce. He emphasized that the world must now find a way to respond to what he described as a historic disruption to free trade principles.

The tariffs in question were recently introduced by the Trump administration and have sparked widespread concern among U.S. allies and trade partners. Berger disclosed that trade ministers from the European Union have been actively discussing potential responses to the U.S. measures throughout the weekend, ahead of a scheduled Monday meeting.

He noted that the EU has already taken action in response to earlier steel and aluminum tariffs but continues to hold out hope for diplomatic resolution. "We want to give negotiations some more time," Berger explained, highlighting the EU’s preference for dialogue despite mounting pressure to retaliate.

The ambassador’s remarks add to the growing chorus of international criticism regarding the Trump administration’s tariff strategy. While aimed at protecting American industries, the sweeping tariffs have raised concerns over triggering a wider trade conflict. As EU officials prepare for further discussions, attention remains focused on whether upcoming negotiations can de-escalate tensions or if more retaliatory steps will follow.