Trump holds call with EU chief; both sides "united" on Iran not possessing nuclear weapons
Washington DC, May 8
US President Donald Trump on Thursday said he held a "great call" with the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, during which both leaders discussed the situation in West Asia and agreed that Iran "can never have a nuclear weapon".
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the two leaders were "completely united" on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear capabilities.
"We discussed many topics, including that we are completely united that Iran can never have a Nuclear Weapon. We agreed that a regime that kills its own people cannot control a bomb that can kill millions," Trump stated in his post.
Trump also said the conversation focused on trade relations between the European Union and the United States. Referring to a trade understanding reached in Turnberry, Scotland, Trump said he had urged the EU to fulfil commitments related to tariff reductions, adding that he had agreed to give the EU until the United States' 250th Independence anniversary before imposing higher tariffs if progress was not made.
"I've been waiting patiently for the EU to fulfil their side of the Historic Trade Deal we agreed in Turnberry, Scotland, the largest Trade Deal, ever! A promise was made that the EU would deliver their side of the Deal and, as per the Agreement, cut their Tariffs to ZERO! I agreed to give her until our Country's 250th Birthday or, unfortunately, their Tariffs would immediately jump to much higher levels," the post read.
Von der Leyen also confirmed the call in a post on X, saying the leaders discussed developments in the Middle East and coordination with regional partners.
"We are united that Iran must never possess a nuclear weapon. Recent events have clearly shown that the risks to regional stability and global security are too great," she said.
The European Commission President added that both sides also reviewed progress on the EU-US trade deal and reiterated their commitment to implementing the agreement.
"We remain fully committed, on both sides, to its implementation. Good progress is being made towards tariff reduction by early July," von der Leyen added.
This comes amid diplomatic engagements between Tehran and Washington to achieve a complete solution to the West Asia crisis, with Iran not acquiring nuclear weapons remaining a top priority as part of the negotiation for the US side.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Typical Trump - making it all about trade deals and tariffs even when discussing nuclear non-proliferation! The EU should focus on de-escalation in Gaza and West Asia, not just pleasing the US. India has always maintained that dialogue and diplomacy are the way forward. 🇮🇳
As an Indian, I appreciate this coordinated stance. Iran's nuclear ambitions are a real threat. However, the West needs to understand that simply demanding zero tariffs from the EU while threatening them isn't how allies should behave. Trade and security should go hand in hand.
Finally some sensible cooperation! Iran cannot be trusted with nukes. As someone who follows global politics, I'm glad the US and EU are on the same page. Now if only they could sort out the trade disputes without more tariffs...
This is all political posturing. The real issue is that Western powers keep interfering in West Asia while ignoring the root causes of instability. India has always advocated for a multipolar world where countries like Iran are engaged respectfully, not threatened. 😤
Interesting that Trump mentions Turnberry (his golf course!) as the venue for a 'historic' trade deal. 🤔 Classic self-promotion. But on the Iran issue, I agree Iran can't have nukes. India has good relations with Iran too, so we should encourage diplomatic solutions. Balance is key.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.