Category World News

Two days after threatening the bloc with 50% tariffs, US President Donald Trump has decided to stop imposing steep levies on the continent.

After European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the bloc needed more time to “reach a good deal,” Trump agreed to extend his deadline for trade talks until July 9 from the Friday deadline he set for June 1.

Von der Leyen allegedly told Trump during a phone call that the EU needed to work through a deal more quickly and that he had requested that he postpone the start of the trade duties until July, the date he had originally set when he announced his “reciprocal” tariffs in April on almost all of the world’s nations.

Trump claimed to have granted the request and that von der Leyen had said, “We will quickly get together to see if we can work something out.” In a social media post, Van der Leyen claimed that the EU was prepared to move quickly through trade negotiations.

French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his hope that Washington and Brussels could reach a deal with the lowest possible tariffs during a trip to Vietnam on Monday. He told reporters, “The discussions are getting going.”

The US president’s most recent victory comes as part of Washington’s stop-and-start global trade war, which began in April. Trump’s actions have irritated consumers, businesses, and consumers, and they have spooked fears of a global economic slowdown.

Key sticking points, however, make it difficult to reach an agreement with the EU, even though his approach has led to a trade deal with the United Kingdom and negotiations are believed to be moving forward with a number of other countries.

What the fuss is about and why the US and EU are trying to reach an agreement on trade:

What’s the background like?

Trump’s recent bluster against the EU was brought on by the White House’s belief that EU-related negotiations are not moving along quickly enough. Our discussions with them “are going nowhere”! Trump posted a message on Truth Social.

“I therefore suggest that the European Union will have a straight 50% tariff effective from June 1, 2025. If the product is created or produced in the United States, he wrote last Friday.

Trump, however, had made a change of direction by Sunday. He applauded von der Leyen’s claim that the bloc needed more time to negotiate but that it was still willing to do so. He added that preventing the higher tariffs was his “privilege.”

Trump claimed that Von der Leyen wants to start serious negotiations. She called us and said we would check things out right away, he said, “we will see if things work out.”

Trump is reportedly opposed to the EU’s proposal to reduce tariffs to zero. The US president has urged countries to keep a 1% base import tax on most of their goods imported.

A trade agreement signed by the UK on May 8 kept Trump’s 10% reciprocal tariff in place.

Maros Sefcovic, the head of EU trade, stated that the executive branch of the EU is still working to secure a deal that benefits both parties. However, he cautioned against “mutual respect, not threats,” as the EU-US trade “must be guided by.”

In 2024, EU exports to the US totalled about 532 billion euros ($603bn). According to EU data, the largest exports included pharmaceuticals, cars and auto parts, chemicals, and aircraft.

What does the EU offer?

A proposal sent by the European Commission was rejected last week in the US. According to Bloomberg, the EU had offered to co-develop AI data centers, lower tariffs on some industrial goods, and increase access to some US agricultural products.

Additionally, it suggested establishing an EU-US energy partnership that covers gas, nuclear power, and oil in addition to expanding economic cooperation in areas like shipbuilding and port infrastructure.

Brussels wants more flexibility in the Trump administration’s ability to lower the 10-percent baseline tariff, including by moving it down gradually.

The EU has stated that it wants to reach a compromise, but it has also been making plans to retaliate if necessary.

A batch of US products worth 21 billion euros ($23. 8 billion), including maize, wheat, and clothing, will be subject to a 50 percent tariff, which is approved by member states without agreement on July 14.

Additionally, the bloc is putting together tariffs on bourbon and other imported goods worth 95 billion euros ($107.8 billion). These tariffs target industrial products like those used in Boeing aircraft and cars.

What is the US’s desire?

Trump has long alleged that Brussels will “rip off” the US, and he is determined to take steps to reduce its 198.2-billion-euro ($225bn) goods trade surplus.

Washington has raised questions about the rules governing IT and food exports in Europe in recent weeks. Trump asserts that the EU is de facto a deterrent to trade because of these controls.

Sefcovic for his part recently stated to the Financial Times that he wants to purchase more US gas, weapons, and agricultural products to reduce the US-EU trade deficit.

Trump is reportedly interested in lowering its dependence on Chinese exports and imposing tariffs on subordinate Chinese exports.

Next month, Sefcovic and his US counterpart Jamieson Greer will meet in Paris to discuss de-escalation of the US-EU trade dispute.

How much would Trump’s tariffs have an impact on both countries?

A trade surplus of almost 200 billion euros ($227bn) was generated by the EU’s exports of 531.6 billion euros ($603bn) of goods to the US and its imports of products worth 333 billion euros ($377.8bn).

In contrast, the US has a surplus of more than 109 billion euros ($124 billion) in services as of 2023 thanks to notable IT exports, led by major American tech companies, and fees for intellectual property and financial services.

Trump’s tariffs would have a significant impact on both economies. A full-fledged US-EU trade war could cost between 0.3 and 0.6% of GDP on both sides, according to an International Monetary Fund study from 2019.

During the Liverpool FC’s Premier League victory parade on Monday, several football fans were hurt in a car ramming incident. The scenes were described as “utter horror,” according to the UK’s prime minister. On suspicion of drug driving, dangerous driving, and attempted murder, the driver was detained.

Friedrich Merz, the newly elected chancellor of Germany, has announced that Ukraine’s Western allies are lifting the weapons supply ban.

Merz stated at a local political gathering in Berlin on Monday that the policy change applies to weapons supplied by nations like the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and the United States.

Any such action, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, is “absolutely contrary” to any upcoming peace agreement with Kyiv.

Merz’s announcement comes as Russian attacks across Ukraine are on the rise, and Donald Trump, the president of Russia, has criticized him for his “crazy” comments on Sunday.

So the question is: How might this decision affect upcoming ceasefire negotiations between Russia and Ukraine?

What information is necessary here:

What did Merz specifically say?

The German chancellor stated at a forum hosted by public broadcaster WDR that there are no longer any range limitations on the weapons that have been delivered to Ukraine, neither by the British, French, Americans, nor by the French either.

That enables Ukraine to also assert itself by attacking Russian military installations, Merz said. It “can now,” it used to say, “but it couldn’t.”

He continued, “We call this long-range fire,” and we also supply Ukraine with weapons that can attack military installations in the hinterland, in jargon.

However, it was unclear whether Merz was referring to the US’s decision to allow Ukraine to launch strikes inside Russian territory using long-range missiles like the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS).

Russian authorities reported on November 19 that Ukraine had used six ATACMS ballistic missiles with a range of 300 kilometers (190 miles) to attack a “facility” in the border region of Bryansk&nbsp following US approval.

According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, Ukraine fired long-range Storm Shadow missiles into Russia a day later. Targets up to 250 kilometers (155 miles) away can be hit by the Storm Shadow missile.

What are the limitations on the range?

Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the president of Ukraine, has repeatedly urged his Western allies to outlaw restrictions on the use of long-range weapons, such as the ATACMS, which they offer to Ukraine.

Zelenskyy claims that by granting Kyiv this ability, Ukrainian forces could attack targets like airfields, ammunition storage facilities, and command centers far inside Russia.

Western allies have, however, remained cautious up until now because they were concerned that Ukrainian strikes deep inside Russia could increase the conflict beyond Ukraine’s borders.

Germany had long opposed sending Taurus long-range cruise missiles to Ukraine, which is now the second-largest recipient of military aid after the US.

Despite being called by Merz while he was in the opposition, former Chancellor Olaf Scholz had outright rejected their delivery to Kyiv.

The low-flying cruise missile has a 500 km (310 miles) range and is suitable for hitting targets that are buried or protected. If Germany decides to supply Ukraine with missiles, the air-launched projectile would be the strongest Western missile ever used.

Merz did not specify whether Berlin would send the cruise missiles to the Ukrainian army as he announced it on Monday.

What has Russia done to combat it?

According to Peskov, a spokesman for the Kremlin, allowing Ukraine to possess long-range missile capabilities would be a risky choice on Monday.

According to Peskov, “these potential decisions, if they have indeed been made, run completely against our aspirations for reaching a political settlement.”

President Putin had warned in September of last year that NATO and Russia would be “at war” if Ukraine’s Western allies allowed it to launch long-range missiles inside Russia.

The nature of the conflict would change significantly as a result. Putin had stated that this would indicate that Russia and the US and other European countries are at war.

Merz’s announcement was a “response to Russian foot-dragging,” according to Timothy Ash, an associate fellow in Chatham House’s Russia and Eurasia program.

He told Al Jazeera, “The Europeans hope it will put pressure on Russia to take the negotiations seriously.”

Ash added that the decision was a “significant change in how the German chancellor views things.” He claimed that Scholz and him are “clearly more hawkish” about Russia.

“The two parties’ efforts to reach a peaceful conclusion are still insufficient. Both parties are prepared for the protracted conflict, he continued, adding that this will only contribute to a slight easing of Ukraine’s chances.

Russia launched its largest airstrike of the three-year-old conflict overnight, according to Ukraine’s air force, firing a record 298 drones and 69 missiles, according to Sunday’s report from the country’s air force. The attack claimed the lives of at least 12 people.

How has Trump handled the most recent Russian attack?

Due to the lack of success so far for his administration’s efforts to end the war, the US president has grown increasingly frustrated with Putin. After speaking with Putin for two hours last week, he was unable to secure a ceasefire for Ukraine.

“Putin’s actions are not what I’m happy with. He is frequently killing people. And what the heck has Putin been up to, Trump told reporters on Sunday.

Putin has known him for a long time, and we have always gotten along, but he’s killing people with his rockets and is considering putting more sanctions on Moscow, he said.

Trump had promised to end the conflict right away during his campaign trail for the presidency, but he has still not been successful in achieving a truce five months after taking office.

Putin claims that any agreement must address “the root causes of this crisis,” while Ukraine demands an unconditional ceasefire. Moscow wants Kyiv’s forces to withdraw from Ukrainian regions that are partially occupied by Russian forces and not be allowed to join NATO. Those demands have been rejected by Kyiv.

Israel’s recent military exercises in Gaza, according to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, were inadmissible because of how serious civilian casualties are as a result of Hamas’ attacks. He reaffirmed Germany’s desire to remain Israel’s ally, but he warned that if it continues on this path, it could alienate its closest allies.

Cristiano Ronaldo has indicated that he will leave Al Nassr and possibly join the lucrative Saudi Pro League.

The 40-year-old Portugal striker made the announcement via his social media account on the platform X just hours after his team’s final game of the season.

The post’s title read, “The story,” and included a photo of him wearing an Al Nassr jersey. Still being written. grateful to everyone.

The former Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus forward’s future has now become a hot topic in the media.

Al Jazeera examines potential outcomes for a player who continues to be one of football’s most financially secure assets.

Ronaldo’s decision to leave Al Nassr

Ronaldo made a shock-inducing move by leaving Manchester United for Al Nassr in January 2023.

The Saudi Pro League needed the marquee signing to improve its reputation internationally thanks to the five-time world champion.

His lucrative two-and-a-half-year agreement, which is expected to be worth $200 million ($214.5 million), expires in June but was widely anticipated to be renewed.

Al Nassr finished third in the league this year, but they have failed to win any titles during Ronaldo’s time at the club. This is disappointing because they have missed out on places at both the Asian Champions League and the FIFA Club World Cup.

They now have the best chance of winning a playoff spot in Asia’s Champions League Two.

The chapter has ended.
The narrative ? Still being written.
Thankful to everyone. pic. twitter.com/Vuvl5siEB3

Ronaldo’s eligibility for the FIFA Club World Cup is unknown.

Yes . A special transfer window has been set aside for the 32 clubs that compete in the Club World Cup.

Just before the tournament in the United States debuts on June 14, when Inter Miami takes on Al Ahly, will be held there from June 1 through June 10.

What did Ronaldo’s opponent at the Club World Cup look like, according to FIFA President Infantino?

Ronaldo’s participation in the expanded and rebranded tournament is being discussed, according to FIFA President Gianni Infantino last week.

Which FIFA Club World Cup teams might Ronaldo want to play for?

1. Real Madrid

Ronaldo joined the Spanish giants from Manchester United in 2009 for what was then a record-breaking 80 million euros ($91 million) fee.

Given the difficulties Los Blancos faced in figuring out how to make Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr., and Rodrygo fit into the front three as Real attempted to defend its Champions League and La Liga titles, it is unlikely even to make a temporary return to Real for the tournament.

It’s difficult to think of a Real return for Ronaldo because Jude Bellingham had to adapt to a new role already last season and Mbappe left from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).

Juventus, one of his former clubs at the time, at least giving fans the chance to make memories. Juventus are unlikely to want to upset the team that had already been invited to the tournament because such a move would only be temporary.

2. Inter Miami

The biggest statement would undoubtedly be a collaboration with Lionel Messi, Ronaldo’s all-time best player, for the title of best player in the world.

In 2023, the Argentinian forward left Paris Saint-Germain to join the David Beckham-owned Major League Soccer (MLS) team.

Since Ronaldo had been linked with an MLS move prior to joining Al Nassr, it was a sensational score for Miami.

There would be no bigger headline-grabber than a pairing between two players who have each won the title of world player of the year on 13 occasions if Infantino and FIFA see Ronaldo’s participation in the Club World Cup as a boost to the competition.

When asked if Inter Miami might sign Ronaldo, Infantino laughed and said, “It’s possible.”

3. Al Hilal

Al Hilal, the Saudi Pro League champion from 2023 to 2024, is a strong candidate for Ronaldo’s signature both short and long term.

All parties will understand the decision. The Saudi domestic league’s marquee signing will continue to compete in the competition, compete in the Club World Cup, and be the spearhead of the country’s assault on the Asian Champions League championship in the coming year.

Ronaldo’s choice would mean continuing to reside in the country’s capital, where many of his current business and commercial interests are based.

Al Ain from the United Arab Emirates and Al Ahly from Egypt, who are also competing in the region’s regional competition, could compete for the African Champions League next year. The Saudi Pro League would undoubtedly prefer to avoid losing Ronaldo to a neighboring football team.

4. Botafogo

Ronaldo and the Brazilian megaclub Botafogo are in talks, according to a report from Marca last week.

Because they could possibly afford a short-term deal with Ronaldo, that news made sense at the time. That announcement, however, came before the player’s announcement that Al Nassr might have ended his relationship with him.

Despite its rich history and legacy, it seems unlikely to make a long-term move to Brazil. A move to a Club World Cup participant who wants a contract after the competition’s conclusion is a possibility, provided the short-term agreement is kept.

The top flight of Brazil will also be represented at the tournament by Palmeiras, Fluminense, and Flamengo.

5. Seattle Sounders

Signing a long-term deal with one of the US-based participants would probably be the best option for Ronaldo’s appearance at the Club World Cup, according to one of the choices.

Ronaldo’s signing would significantly improve the MLS, in the same way that the Saudi Pro League did to increase its exposure, whether it was on a match against Messi or in a match between the two players.

As part of a longer-term plan to establish himself as a MLS champion in the US, his move to the Seattle Sounders would also give his appearance more credibility.

Ronaldo and Messi could they play together?

If a potential Messi and Ronaldo pairing at the Club World Cup were to be planned, it would also be a huge talking point.

Messi prefers to play either on the right, cutting in with his famous left foot, or playing a deeper role through the middle, with the team circling him.

Ronaldo, who started out on the left, is now only able to move in the middle, preferring a more advanced position.

The viability of a potential partnership would be questioned if both scenarios worked, but both would lead to Messi making runs into Ronaldo’s field.

The pair’s long-running battle for the coveted Ballon d’Or title has long drawn ire from the public, making the annual ceremony to honor the world’s best player a frequently content affair.

With Messi and Ronaldo playing for Real Madrid and Messi for Barcelona, the two teams engaged in heated debate over who was the better player at their peak.

The pair frequently cryptically contributed to the conversation, but there was consistently no sign of love lost when the pair met on the field of play.

One of the biggest box office successes in football history would be the Club World Cup, which would also help to draw in much-needed interest.