Trump Issues ‘Take It or Leave It’ Tariff Ultimatum to 12 Countries

U.S. President Donald Trump said he has signed “take it or leave it” tariff letters to 12 countries, outlining specific tariff levels on their exports to the U.S. The letters, to be sent Monday, will detail varying tariffs, with rates potentially reaching up to 70% and most taking effect on August 1. Trump’s approach marks a shift from prolonged negotiations to issuing firm offers after setbacks with major partners like Japan and the EU. The letters signal his intent to enforce higher tariffs unilaterally if countries do not accept the outlined terms before the July 9 negotiation deadline.

Tariff Ultimatum

“I signed some letters and they’ll go out on Monday, probably twelve,” Trump said, when asked about his plans on the tariff front. “Different amounts of money, different amounts of tariffs.”

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