
Spain Slams U.S. Auto Tariffs
Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has openly criticized the recent decision by U.S. President Donald Trump to impose a 25% tariff on all car imports, targeting European manufacturers. Speaking at a press conference in Madrid on Friday, Sanchez labeled the move as 'nonsense' and urged the United States to reconsider the decision immediately.
“Stop this nonsense,” Sanchez stated, emphasizing that the imposition of such tariffs would strain economic relations between the United States and the European Union. He called for the Trump administration to engage in constructive dialogue with the European Commission in an effort to resolve the dispute through diplomatic means rather than unilateral actions.
The announcement of the tariff plan came on Wednesday, triggering strong reactions across Europe. The European Union has already signaled its intent to respond with a 'robust, calibrated' countermeasure if the U.S. proceeds with the tariffs. European officials have expressed concern that the move could escalate into a broader trade war, affecting key sectors and international cooperation.
Spain, home to a significant auto manufacturing industry, is particularly concerned about the economic impact of the tariffs. Sanchez stressed the importance of maintaining open trade channels and warned that punitive tariffs would harm not only Europe’s economy but also global supply chains and consumer prices.
As President Trump continues to assert his trade policies following his re-election, European leaders are bracing for more confrontational economic measures. The Spanish government, alongside other EU member states, is preparing for coordinated diplomatic engagement to avoid further tensions.
The situation remains tense, with the European Commission expected to present its formal response in the coming days. Sanchez’s remarks underline the growing urgency for transatlantic dialogue to prevent further deterioration in economic relations between two of the world’s largest trading partners.