Part 2/11:
This intensification follows Trump's criticism of EU trade policies, particularly citing the substantial US trade deficit with Europe, which reached approximately $236 billion in 2024, according to US Commerce Department data. Trump has explicitly stated that he sees no room for negotiations, asserting, "We've set the deal. It is at 50%." This stance underscores his unwillingness to back down easily, pointing to a looming confrontation.