Bangladesh, Feb. 1 -- US President Donald Trump has announced his intent to impose tariffs on the European Union, citing what he describes as unfair trade practices by Brussels. This declaration marks a significant escalation in transatlantic economic tensions, reminiscent of trade disputes during his first term.

Trumps statement, made on January 31 at the White House, was characteristically emphatic. When asked about the possibility of tariffs on EU goods, he responded unequivocally: “Am I going to impose tariffs on the European Union? You want the truthful answer, or should I give you a political answer? Absolutely, absolutely.”

Trump has long accused the European Union of unfair trade policies and has threatened to take a...