The article discusses President Trump's threat to impose 50% tariffs on the European Union, attributing this to his lack of understanding of negotiating complexities with democratic entities. Unlike quicker deals with autocratic countries, the EU comprises 27 nations, making negotiations cumbersome. The piece suggests that aspirations for a more effective EU decision-making process may not be feasible due to political realities. Ultimately, it raises concerns about economic implications, as stock markets reacted negatively to Trump's provocations, and speculates that he may either be bluffing or reconsidering his approach.
The only difference is that Dr Evil is a fictional creation, and meant to be funny, whereas Donald Trump is for real, and there is nothing to laugh about.
Trump simply does not understand why a trade deal cannot be concluded with the EU as quickly as those recently announced with autocratic states such as China, Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
Negotiating with 27 inconveniently democratic countries under the aegis of the EU can be cumbersome.
The best hope is that Trump is bluffing, or just blowing off steam.
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