Trump writes:
Several European countries are discussing the imminent implementation of a digital services tax on US companies. Some of these countries are already on the verge of doing so. Please use this statement to note that any country imposing such a tax will be immediately met with a 100% tariff on any and all goods sent to the USA. This tariff will replace trade deals concluded with the country, whether implemented or signed or not. In addition, 100% tariffs will be imposed immediately, should we go ahead. Thank you for your interest in this issue.
You have to wonder what Big Tech offered Trump in exchange for him immediately and relentlessly fighting for this cause from the beginning.
Of course, we know how it ends because Europe always turns around.
I maintain that the biggest surprise last year was Europe’s immediate acquiescence when the United States launched tariffs. It was the only mass of size capable of fighting. In fact, I would argue that all of it a point The EU had to unite and be large enough to be in a position to resist. However, they surrendered in a way that goes beyond any of Trump’s tacos.
Separately, Trump also wrote about Iranian attacks on ships, but the “senseless violation” speech is a reminder that he is desperate to reach a deal and get out of this war.
The Islamic Republic of Iran launched at least four one-way attack drones on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz. One of the drones crashed hard into the upper deck of a very large and expensive cargo ship. It was damaged, but the ship was able to continue on its way. We shot down three more drones. This is clearly a foolish violation of the ceasefire agreement.
Attention will turn to Israel and Lebanon in the coming days as a precondition for reaching an agreement.
Update: In this regard, Barak Ravid of Axios reported that “Israeli and Lebanese officials told me that a framework agreement between the two governments is expected today after four days of negotiations in Washington.”
