European Union (EU) policy consultant Johann Weick has condemned U.S. tariffs as harmful to consumers, highlighting that President Donald Trump's approach is a "bullying" tactic to exploit the EU's limited options and weaken the bloc, as he urged vigilance against these tactics.
Weick made the remarks following the EU member states' decision on Wednesday to approve the bloc's first package of retaliatory measures against Trump's tariffs.
According to media outlets Euractiv and Politico, 26 of the bloc's 27 member states voted in favor during Wednesday's session, signaling overwhelming support for fighting back against Trump's tariff measures.
Weick said the initial retaliatory measures of the EU are a direct counterattack against the tariffs, and Europe will remain increasingly vigilant regarding the true intentions of the U.S. in the future.
"Trump is really bullying the European Union because he knows very well that the European union does not have much of an alternative. And they would like, I will not say crush, but they would like to see a weaker European Union and European Union better pays attention," said Weick.
He stressed that tariff decisions made by the Trump administration are unpopular within the U.S., as they are expected to lead to significant price increases, primarily affecting American consumers.
Furthermore, these policies will disrupt the world economy, and countries across the globe should maintain a firm stance in response to the situation.
"Does Donald Trump understand that if he slaps tariffs that the importers, the wholesalers, the retailers are passing the increased price because it's a tax. To the consumer It will cost and will harm the consumer in the U.S. but also around the world," said the analyst.
Some analysts also pointed out that the retaliatory measures indicated a further deepening of the rift in transatlantic relations under the pressure of U.S. tariffs.
EU analyst criticizes Trump's tariff "bullying" tactics, urges vigilance
Attractions across China are embracing a tourist boom during the five-day May Day holiday season beginning on Thursday.
In south China's Guangdong Province, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, a mega bridge connecting Guangdong's Zhuhai City with neighboring Hong Kong and Macao, is one of the most popular tourist destinations.
The total number of visits of the bridge during the holiday has exceeded 6,800, about 50 percent more than that on normal days.
"I am indeed feeling very proud [of this mega project], a big thumbs-up for our great country!" said a tourist surnamed Ke.
In the Tianmen Mountain scenic area in Zhangjiajie, central China's Hunan Province, performances featuring local folk customs are amazing tourists from home and abroad.
"I think it's really traditional in China, the costumes and the dance. We really like it," said tourist Julie from France.
"I love the performance. I felt like it was very immersive, and with the view, it's crazy. I'll recommend everyone thinking of coming here for sure," said tourist Duarte from Portugal.
In northwest China's Gansu Province, the famous Mogao Grottoes are also see a peak of visits during the holiday, as the tickets, which are limited to 6,000 per day, would all sell out well in advance.
Built between the 4th and 14th centuries, the Mogao Grottoes are home to a vast collection of Buddhist artworks, with more than 2,000 colored sculptures and 45,000 square meters of murals located in 735 caves, carved along the cliffs by ancient worshipers.
In northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the Tianchi Lake in the Tianshan Mountains, more than 1,900 meters above sea level, had the ice floes on it thawed just before the holiday, offering tourists a breathtaking view.
"This is my first time to visit the lake. The view is shockingly beautiful when you see it in person!" said tourist Chen Yanru from northeast China's Liaoning Province.
Xinjiang's Manas county is a famous destination for self-driving tours because of the region's diverse natural landscapes, such as yardangs, the Danxia landform, river valleys, canyons, alpine meadows and forests.
"It's a very worthwhile trip for the holiday. I am amazed by the picturesque scenery of Xinjiang," said tourist Zhou Chenchong from Shanghai.
Attractions across China embrace May Day holiday tourism boom
