On July 12–13, 2025, the world witnessed a major shift in global politics and economics: U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 30% tariff on imports from the EU and Mexico. France's President Macron urged a firm EU response, while Merkel and Meloni pushed for diplomacy. The European Commission paused €21B in countermeasures. The IMF warned these tariffs increase global instability. Mexico called the move a violation of the USMCA. EU looked to strengthen ties with Asia and Africa. Links: reuters.com, theguardian.com, washingtonpost.com