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📍 Dublin, July 12, 2025 — Taoiseach Micheál Martin has issued a formal statement urging calm and constructive engagement in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to impose a 30% tariff on imports from the European Union. The proposed measure, outlined in a letter from President Trump to EU leaders, has raised concerns across European capitals and prompted calls for renewed diplomatic efforts.
🛃 EU-US Trade Relationship at Risk Martin emphasized the importance of the transatlantic trade and investment partnership, describing it as the largest and most integrated in the world. He stressed that disputes should be resolved through “close and respectful dialogue”, not unilateral escalation.
The Taoiseach expressed support for the EU negotiating team led by President Ursula von der Leyen and Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič, noting their good-faith efforts to reach a balanced agreement. He reiterated that while all options remain on the table, the EU’s preference is for a negotiated solution that avoids further disruption.
🗣️ Call for Partnership Over Rivalry
“The EU and the US should be partners, not rivals. In a true partnership, everyone wins,” Martin stated, adding that he hopes negotiations will continue in the coming weeks and ultimately succeed.
📈 Implications for Ireland The tariff threat poses particular risks for Irish exporters, especially in sectors such as pharmaceuticals and semiconductors, which have so far been exempt from previous rounds of U.S. tariffs. The uncertainty surrounding the potential escalation has already begun to affect investment decisions and market confidence.
For the full statement, visit the Department of the Taoiseach’s official release and analysis from RTÉ News.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin Picture by European Parliament
