Trump Demands ‘Good Enough’ EU Trade Deal Before August 1, Says Cantor Fitzgerald CEO Lutnick
New York – Former President Donald Trump is pushing for a preliminary trade agreement with the European Union before August 1, according to Howard Lutnick, CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald. The financial services executive, who has advised Trump on economic matters, revealed that the presumptive Republican nominee wants a deal that is “good enough” to tout as a win ahead of the November election.
Key Details:
- Deadline Pressure: Trump has privately urged negotiators to secure at least a framework agreement with the EU by August 1, per Lutnick.
- “Good Enough” Approach: Rather than waiting for a comprehensive deal, Trump is prioritizing a politically advantageous announcement.
- Tariff Threat: The former president has suggested imposing auto tariffs if Europe doesn’t meet his demands.
Why It Matters:
With the U.S. election heating up, Trump is looking for tangible economic victories to contrast with Biden’s record. A trade breakthrough with the EU—even an incremental one—could bolster his argument that he’s the better negotiator for American interests.
What’s Next?
EU officials remain cautious, but Lutnick’s comments suggest Trump’s team is pushing aggressively behind the scenes. If no deal materializes, retaliatory tariffs could escalate transatlantic tensions.
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