Macron Condemns Tariffs as 'Blackmail' at Global Trade Summit

During a prominent international conference in Seville, Spanish leaders were taken aback as French President Emmanuel Macron criticized tariffs imposed by powerful nations, labeling them forms of 'blackmail'.

Despite the absence of explicit references to the United States or President Donald Trump, the remarks came amid EU-U.S. trade negotiations. Macron stressed the importance of freedom and equity in global trade over barriers and tariffs, advocating a rethinking of the World Trade Organization to meet anti-inequality and climate change objectives.

The controversy arises as Trump recently initiated sweeping global tariffs, but later reduced them for 90 days. The tariffs have raised alarms at the United Nations, predicting severe impacts on developing nations. As tensions rise, Macron continues to condemn what he deems an unfair trade war, urging global dialogue to realign trade practices in favor of emerging economies.

(With inputs from agencies.)