Tensions between the United States and its European allies have escalated after President Trump threatened to impose a 30% tariff on EU goods starting August 1, prompting strong backlash from France and Germany. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot condemned the move as “blackmail” and warned that such tariffs would hurt the American middle class more than Europe. Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz cautioned Trump not to “underestimate” the EU’s ability to retaliate, with the European Commission reportedly preparing counter-tariffs on $84.1 billion worth of U.S. goods if trade talks fail.