The situation became more complicated after the US Supreme Court ruled in February that Trump had exceeded his authority in imposing a wide swath of tariffs, including on the E.U.
The Trump administration has since imposed a temporary 10 percent duty while his administration pursues more sustainable ways to rebuild its trade agenda.
But the court’s decision did not affect sector-specific tariffs such as those for cars, which were reduced to 15 percent under the EU agreement.
While the deal still awaits signature by EU member states, Trump vowed last week to raise tariffs on EU cars and trucks to 25 percent, accusing the bloc of failing to keep its side of the bargain.
Cyprus, which holds the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union, said it wanted to maintain “positive momentum” in talks with MEPs on May 19.
“I have been waiting patiently for the EU to deliver on its side of the Historic Trade Deal we agreed in Turnberry, Scotland, the biggest trade deal ever!” Trump posted on his “Truth Social” platform.
“A promise was made that the EU would deliver their side of the Agreement and, under the Agreement, reduce their tariffs to ZERO!”
In late March, EU lawmakers gave the green light to the tariff deal with Trump, but they also demanded additional safeguards.
Despite conditional approval from the European Parliament, the deal must be negotiated with EU states before it can be implemented by the bloc.
