Donald Trump is getting roasted online after suddenly backing down from his tough talk on European tariffs.
On Sunday, Trump announced he was delaying his planned 50% tariff on goods from the European Union. The move came after a call from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
“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,” Trump posted on Truth Social. “I agreed to the extension — July 9, 2025 — It was my privilege to do so. The Commission President said that talks will begin rapidly. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”
The backpedal triggered an avalanche of mockery.
Senator Chris Murphy tore into the flip-flop:
“The tariffs are on and it’s a different % per country because of a formula I made up wait but now they’re off for everyone but China oh but now back on! and we are writing letters to tell them the % oh no now it’s 50% on Europe wait now no tariffs on Europe btw,” he wrote. “What a joke.”
Economist Justin Wolfers mocked how quickly Trump’s announcement collapsed.
“Friday’s EU tariff announcement lasted nearly the whole weekend, or 18% of a Scaramucci,” he joked — referencing the famously short White House tenure of Anthony Scaramucci. He added, “I like to give my students some predictability, and a sense that I take my commitments seriously and expect them to do the same.”
Author James Surowiecki pulled no punches.
“Trump backs down from his threat to impose a 50% tariff on the EU,” he posted. Then added bluntly: “What a clown this guy is.”
Even conservatives who oppose Trump joined in. The group Republicans Against Trump posted: “Trump backs down from his EU tariff threat. Again.” Followed by: “What a clown show.”
Trump’s sudden retreat is the latest in a long list of big threats that fizzled out fast — and his critics aren’t letting it slide.
