From Beijing to Brussels: Global backlash builds against Trump’s tariff blitz

Within hours of Trump’s “Liberation Day” speech, a chorus of global voices began responding — some cautiously, others furiously. While the U.S. president promised to rebalance what he called “decades of economic exploitation,” world capitals began drawing their own red lines.

“Liberation Day” or economic rupture?

Standing in the White House Rose Garden, President Trump called it “Liberation Day”. But for much of the world, it felt more like a diplomatic earthquake.

In a 48-minute address, Trump unveiled:

A 10% baseline tariff on all imports to the U.S. (starting April 5)

Customised higher tariffs on roughly 60 countries — including a staggering 54% rate on China, 46% on Vietnam, 20% on the EU, and 10% on the UK

A national emergency declaration to justify the sweeping economic action

“Our country has been looted, pillaged, raped, and plundered,” Trump said, promising that “American industry will be reborn.”

Europe pushes back

Ireland: “Tariffs benefit no one”

Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin responded sharply, calling the 20% EU-wide tariff “deeply regrettable.”

“They hurt jobs. They hurt people. We will defend the Irish economy.”

Tánaiste Simon Harris echoed the alarm, warning of prolonged damage:

“A 20% blanket tariff could hit Irish investment hard. Every disagreement ends in agreement — but we must be prepared.”

Poland: “Friendship means fairness”

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk posted on X:

“Friendship means partnership. Partnership means really and truly reciprocal tariffs. Adequate decisions are needed.”

Sweden: “We don’t want a trade war”

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson struck a broader tone:

“Free trade brought peace, prosperity and innovation. Tariffs make our people poorer and the world more dangerous.”

He warned the U.S. move “reverses decades of cooperation” and pledged that Sweden will continue to fight for open markets within the EU.

Asia signals pressure — and caution

🇨🇳 China: Financial freeze

Beijing took quiet but significant action, suspending approvals for outbound investments in U.S. assets — a calculated form of pressure designed to gain leverage before any negotiations begin.

Japan: Calls for talks

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said Tokyo will seek immediate dialogue, particularly on car tariffs. He signalled willingness to fly to Washington if needed.

The Bank of Japan warned the tariffs could harm global growth and worsen supply chain fragility.

India: “Reviewing options”

India faces a 26% reciprocal tariff and is weighing its next steps. Officials indicated retaliation is not off the table, but no measures have yet been announced.

South Korea: Rebound at risk

South Korea, seeing an export revival, warned that Trump’s tariffs could derail recovery. The government confirmed it is preparing a mitigation strategy to shield key industries.

Inside the U.S.: Cheers and concern

Within Trump’s administration, the move drew cheers from top allies:

Kristi Noem: “Strong action that will help make America safe again.”

Mike Waltz: “Economic security is national security.”

Speaker Mike Johnson: “We will not be exploited anymore.”

But the markets didn’t celebrate. U.S. indices closed cautiously, and futures fell:

Nasdaq futures dropped 2.5%

FTSE 100 slipped 0.7%

Gold hit a record above $3,130/oz

Brent crude slid 1% before rebounding

Auto stocks — Ford, GM, Stellantis, and Tesla — all tumbled.

A high-stakes gamble

Trump invoked U.S. trade history — recalling the tariff-backed era before 1913 — as a golden age. But economists were quick to issue warnings.

“This is worse than expected,” said Mary Lovely of the Peterson Institute.
“There are huge implications for global trade and inflation.”

Trump promised “kind reciprocity”, but insisted other countries must drop their barriers first:

“Terminate your tariffs. Stop manipulating your currencies. If not — you’ll pay.”

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