An intriguing turn in US trade policy is playing out under President Donald Trump. One moment he circles like a hawk, threatening punitive tariffs on America’s partners, and the next, he dons the cloak of a peacemaker. Most recently, the White House agreed to extend a reprieve on Trump’s proposed 50% tariff against the European Union by another month. EU leaders exhaled, with calm expected through early July. However, this relief may be short-lived.

"I received a call today from Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, requesting an extension on the June 1st deadline on the 50% Tariff with respect to Trade and the European Union. I agreed to the extension — July 9, 2025 — It was my privilege to do so," Trump wrote on Truth Social.

The statement came just hours after von der Leyen described her conversation with Trump as a "good call." According to the Commission president, EU nations are now "ready to advance talks swiftly and decisively."

Notably, last week, Trump threatened to escalate the trade war by imposing a 50% tariff on EU goods starting June 1. Uncertainty remained as to whether this would be an entirely new levy or an addition to the existing 20% tariffs.

Trump's threats reflect his frustration with what he views as stalled negotiations with European leaders. "Our discussions with them are going nowhere!" the president wrote, adding that it is time to push talks forward. His latest remarks underscore a familiar pattern of announcing sweeping tariffs first and then quickly shifting course.