BRUSSELS — The European Union called emergency talks after U.S. President Donald Trump declared a full-scale trade war on Saturday by imposing 30 percent tariffs on the bloc.

In a letter sent to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Trump said: “Starting on August 1, 2025, we will charge the European Union a Tariff of only 30 percent on EU products sent into the United States, separate from all Sectoral Tariffs.”

The president added: “If for any reason you decide to raise your Tariffs and retaliate, then, whatever the number you choose to raise them by, will be added onto the 30 percent that we charge.”

Commission staff were abruptly told to put weekend plans on hold and report for duty, three officials said, while national capitals immediately went into crisis mode to try and assess the next move. 

The EU had been pushing for a deal that would have locked in a one-way baseline tariff at 10 percent on goods entering the U.S. from Europe. It was also seeking relief for specific sectors, including cars, aircraft and spirits.

The Commission was contacted for comment.

This story is being updated.