Habeck: US Tariffs Will Be “Inflation Day Rather Than Liberation Day” for Consumers
German Economy Minister Robert Habeck sharply criticized the new US tariffs announced on Thursday, warning that they would harm both European and American economies while exacerbating inflation. He called the tariffs a potential “downward spiral” that could drag countries into recession and have severe global consequences.
US President Donald Trump revealed sweeping tariffs on Wednesday evening, including a 20% surcharge on EU imports and a minimum 10% tariff on other countries. Habeck, a member of the Green Party, emphasized that Germany and the EU have long advocated for negotiations instead of confrontation with the US administration and remain committed to a diplomatic solution. However, he cautioned that if negotiations fail, the EU would respond decisively.
Habeck underscored the importance of EU unity in addressing the tariffs, pointing to the bloc’s strength as the world’s largest common internal market. He called for a strong, coordinated response from EU member states.
