Trump’s tariffs — 10 percent on most countries, 145 percent on China and 25 percent on steel, aluminum and cars — roiled global markets when he announced them at the start of the month. The World Trade Organization forecasts that global trade will shrink by as much as 1.5 percent if Trump reinstates his higher “reciprocal” tariffs — pegged for the EU at 20 percent — that he earlier suspended for 90 days.
Though she did not name the U.S. president, von der Leyen criticized strongmen around the world in remarks that could easily have been directed at Trump’s aggressive diplomatic style or, in the same breath, at Russian President Vladimir Putin. “We do not invade our neighbors and we do not punish them,” she said.
Trump has repeatedly threatened to annex Greenland, refusing to rule out using military force. He has also voiced his desire to make Canada the 51st American state and has vowed to impose crushing financial penalties if Ottawa defies him and works with the European Union to impose counter-tariffs on the U.S.
Controversial debates
Von der Leyen underscored Europe’s dedication to academic freedom, insisting that “controversial debates at our universities are welcome,” amid Trump’s unprecedented campaign against some of his country’s most prestigious universities.
The American president has introduced stricter regulations and threatened to freeze or cut federal funding unless institutions comply with his administration’s demands, including stamping out progressive ideology.
Europe has in turn launched a concerted campaign to lure American talent, positioning itself as a refuge for scholars fleeing Trump’s crackdown.
