Trump has started sharpening his knives, and at a rally in Pennsylvania, he openly declared:
"If I am elected this time, and the EU keeps selling things to the United States, such as agricultural products, industrial goods, daily necessities, and countless cars, while not buying much from the U.S., then the EU will have to bear the consequences. I have to be responsible for America and bring down the spending bill for American citizens; this cannot be vague."
Such statements undoubtedly drop a heavy bomb into the pool of international trade relations. The trade exchanges between the U.S. and the EU have always been complex, and such tough rhetoric seems to protect American interests, but in reality, it undermines the trade balance built over many years. This unilateral thinking can easily provoke trade friction between the two sides. Once friction escalates, the damage will not only be to the EU, but the U.S. will not escape either. American consumers may face shortages of goods and rising prices, and businesses may lose the large EU market.
Personal opinion: This kind of campaign rhetoric is truly impulsive. International trade is not child's play; it requires mutual benefit and win-win cooperation. The U.S. handling trade issues in such a threatening manner is a short-sighted behavior. We hope that those running for election in the U.S. will consider the consequences more, rather than just making empty promises and shouting for votes. Everyone should do business peacefully and develop the economy together; that is the responsible approach to the people, and the world economy can be more stable, which is good for everyone.