EU Response to US Tariff Threats
The European Union has voiced its intent to “defend” its interests amid escalating tensions as US President Donald Trump threatens to impose tariffs as high as 50% on a range of European goods. Maros Sefcovic, the EU’s trade chief, emphasized that such threats should not dictate the course of trade negotiations. The announcement comes as both sides navigate complex trade relationships, with fears of a full-blown trade war looming.
US Justice Department’s Deal with Boeing
In another significant development, the US Justice Department has reached an agreement that enables Boeing to avoid criminal prosecution related to the fatal crashes of its 737 Max aircraft, which resulted in the loss of 346 lives. The incidents, which occurred in 2018 and 2019, have led to intense scrutiny of Boeing’s safety protocols and oversight. As terms of the deal, Boeing will maintain a focus on improving safety and accountability within the organization.
Details of the Boeing Agreement
| Incident | Date | Casualties |
|---|---|---|
| Lion Air Flight 610 | October 29, 2018 | 189 |
| Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 | March 10, 2019 | 157 |
Challenges for International Students at Harvard
In a related story, uncertainty surrounds the future of foreign students at Harvard as the Trump administration suspends the university’s access to international student visa programs. This decision has raised concerns about potential declines in enrollment and the impact this could have on the institution’s diversity and academic reputation. Following immediate backlash, the administration has temporarily halted the plan, allowing students to breathe a sigh of relief, albeit uncertain about future developments.
Other Recent Developments in Politics and Business
- Daily Telegraph Sale: The Daily Telegraph is set to be acquired by US investment firm RedBird after a prolonged ownership gap.
- California’s Car Ban: Congress is taking steps to intervene and prevent California’s strategy to ban petrol-only vehicles by 2035.
- Trump’s Tax Bill: The House recently approved Trump’s ‘big, beautiful’ tax and spending plan, with implications for various sectors across the country.
As the global economy continues to face multifaceted challenges, it remains to be seen how these developments will unfold in the coming months.
