With his unmistakable flair for theatrical posturing—but little real credibility—Donald Trump is once again threatening trade tariffs, this time targeting the European Union and tech giants Apple and Samsung. His May 23, 2025, announcement proposes tariffs of up to 50% on European products and 25% on tech not manufactured in the United States. The announcement immediately rattled European markets, with Milan suffering a 3% drop.
But beyond the stagecraft and the loud proclamations posted on Truth Social lies a more tangible reality: Europe is no longer the submissive and pliant partner it once was. Beneath the appearance of strength, the former U.S. president’s strategy reveals itself as little more than political theater—impulsive actions that may backfire economically.
The Trump Playbook: Economic Populism and Showy Threats
Trump’s moves follow a familiar script: protectionist rhetoric, sensational announcements, and a portrayal of global trade as a personal grudge match. His statements—“Europe has taken advantage of the United States” and “negotiations go nowhere”—paint a simplistic and distorted picture of international trade relations, one where global interdependence is ignored in favor of election-season slogans.
His threats toward Apple and Samsung for producing abroad are part of this strategy. But forcing tech production back to the U.S. overlooks the complexity of global supply chains. According to Bloomberg, a 10% tariff on iPhones could drive up retail prices by over $100—hurting American consumers more than anyone.
Europe: A Resilient and Autonomous Economic Power
Contrary to Trump’s narrative, the European Union is now a strong economic bloc with an aggregate GDP of over €18 trillion and a trade policy that is increasingly strategic and self-reliant. While Italian exports to the U.S. remain significant (around €65 billion in 2024), they represent only a fraction of European trade, which is increasingly diversified with investments and agreements in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
Trump’s tariff threats have certainly triggered market instability, but the EU has the diplomatic and economic tools to respond effectively. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has reiterated that Europe is open to dialogue but will not accept unilateral impositions. The EU has previously demonstrated its ability to implement effective countermeasures, hitting iconic American goods—like bourbon and Harley-Davidsons—causing tangible losses for U.S. companies.
Investing in Autonomy and Competitiveness
At the same time, Europe is accelerating efforts to boost its economic independence. The European Green Deal, backed by over €1 trillion in planned investments by 2030, is driving the green transition and strengthening the renewable energy sector. In technology, the European Chips Act aims to double semiconductor production—a key sector for industrial autonomy. The EU also continues to forge strategic trade agreements to reduce exposure to unreliable or inconsistent partners.
A Show Costing America Its Credibility
Trump continues to style himself as the defender of American industry, but his actions resemble publicity stunts more than coherent industrial policy. Economists like Paul Krugman have repeatedly shown that tariffs do not lead to national wealth but instead cause inflation, market distortions, and harm to consumers. According to Rosenblatt Securities, tariffs on smartphones could lead to price increases of up to 43%.
Even his attempt to “temporarily spare” certain products from tariffs seems more like a reaction to pressure from tech lobbyists than part of a coherent plan.
Europe’s Challenge: Unite and Move Forward
Trump’s provocations offer Europe an opportunity to strengthen internal cohesion. As Christine Lagarde has noted, this period could be the moment to build a “more united and strategic” Europe. A Europe that remains unfazed by hyperbolic rhetoric and acts with consistency and foresight can emerge as a truly independent global player.
Conclusion: The Echo of a Tired Monologue
Trump’s statements, though flashy, risk being little more than media fireworks. If the European Union maintains its composure and acts pragmatically, it can not only weather the storm—but grow stronger from it. The days when a megaphone voice could set the rules are over. The Europe of 2025 is a structured economic power, ready to face the challenges of a multipolar world. And as Trump continues his performance for domestic audiences, he risks becoming increasingly irrelevant on the global stage.