Mass protests swelled across the US, UK, and Europe as citizens opposed President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk, driven by his newly instated tariffs. Trump’s universal 10% tariffs on all foreign goods sparked more than 1,200 “Hands Off!” demonstrations by groups including civil rights organisations, labour unions, and LGBTQ+ advocates. Protesters expressed outrage against federal cutbacks, deportations, and erosion of protections for diverse communities.
At a convention in Florence, Musk advocated for a zero-tariff agreement between the US and EU, hoping to create a cohesive trade zone. Despite Trump’s tariffs being a major catalyst for the protests, Musk’s role as an advisor and the head of the Department of Government Efficiency has drawn negative attention regarding government spending cuts. His call for freedom of movement was overshadowed by his condemnation of mass immigration, revealing a complex stance.
In major cities like Boston, New York, and Chicago, crowds rallied, brandishing signs demanding protection of democratic values, Social Security, and healthcare funding. From the rain-soaked streets of Ohio to the sunny shores near Trump’s golf course in Florida, protesters echoed unity against perceived threats to their rights and welfare, with the White House dismissively defending Trump’s efforts as protective of essential social programmes.
Internationally, leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron and Italy’s Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti spoke out against a trade war, urging a diplomatic approach to address tensions created by Trump’s tariffs. Macron stressed the importance of alliances amidst global unrest, while Giorgetti called for caution against retaliatory measures that could exacerbate economic woes.
In London and Berlin, demonstrators gathered to vocalise their opposition to Trump and Musk, brandishing banners with messages of resistance and accountability. In Germany, protests targeted Musk directly outside a Tesla showroom, highlighting anger over his influence in US government.
Jaguar Land Rover paused US shipments in response to tariffs, reflecting broader impacts on industries grappling with the consequences of Trump’s decisions. Amidst these tensions, Trump remained firm in his belief that his tariffs would reshape US trade and restore job markets, declaring it an “economic revolution.”
China responded to Trump’s tariffs, asserting its market’s opinion while preparing to implement its own retaliatory measures, emphasising the escalating trade tensions gripping the two economic powerhouses. As the US brace for escalating trade wars and spiralling protests, the global landscape hangs in balance, teetering between resistance and geopolitical strategies.
Massive protests erupted across the US and Europe against President Trump and Elon Musk due to the implementation of a universal 10% tariff on imports. Over 1,200 “Hands Off!” demonstrations were organised by various groups condemning cuts to social programs and advocating for democratic protections. Musk advocated for a zero-tariff US-EU trade zone, while international leaders cautioned against retaliatory measures. The protests reflect widespread concern over economic and social policies during Trump’s term.
The demonstrations against Trump and Musk illustrate a significant backlash from diverse groups across multiple nations, highlighting a unified demand for the protection of democratic values and social welfare. The economic repercussions of Trump’s tariffs are felt globally, prompting leaders to call for caution and collaboration in trade discussions. Meanwhile, Musk’s controversial role continues to stir public dissent, evidenced by growing protests targeting his companies. As tensions rise, the landscape of international trade and democratic integrity looks more precarious than ever.
Original Source: www.dw.com
