< p > Trump's confrontation with the EU has begun in a "gorgeous" way. And just at this critical moment, China received three phone calls. Now it seems that the tariff issue has caused a complete change in the overall situation. < /p >< p >< img src = "https://p3-sign.toutiaoimg.com/tos-cn-i-axegupay5k/a030194c4e1b4ef0aa42f79c08d722ed~tplv-tt-origin-web:gif.jpeg?_iz=58558&from=article.pc_detail&lk3s=953192f4&x-expires=1748666642&x-signature=rEGHkgxGrXy%2BkXyYc9i%2FsB9arXU%3D" / > < /p >< p > On May 23rd, Washington time, Trump suggested imposing a 50% tariff on all products from the EU starting June 1st. As for the reason, Trump believed that the EU was difficult to deal with in negotiations and always wanted to take advantage of the US. US Treasury Secretary Basant also confirmed Trump's statement, saying: "In the 18 key trade partners negotiating with the US, most countries (including Asian countries) have been sincere to the US, but the EU is not like this." < /p >< p > The meaning of Trump and Basant is that they are tough on the EU because the other side is too strong. But everyone can see clearly that they are actually picking on the weak. If we talk about strength, even China and Japan under Abe's government are stronger than the EU. Therefore, Trump's argument is not valid. < /p >< p > While Trump and the EU are competing openly and covertly, China has received three phone calls: < /p >< p > The first call was from the US. US Deputy Secretary of State Landow had a phone conversation with Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Ma Chaoxu. This was the first high-level communication between the two sides after reaching an agreement to reduce tariffs by 115%. Subsequently, the US Department of State issued a public statement saying: "Both sides agreed that bilateral relations are crucial to both countries and the world." The US side set such a tone to stabilize China first and focus on dealing with other negotiation targets, such as the EU. < /p >< p >< img src = "https://p3-sign.toutiaoimg.com/tos-cn-i-6w9my0ksvp/ecc402d5dd004840bc45b3473004998d~tplv-tt-origin-web:gif.jpeg?_iz=58558&from=article.pc_detail&lk3s=953192f4&x-expires=1748666642&x-signature=aOEzSwDGczJAMZyJI1CNFJkYEjs%3D" / > < /p >< p > The second call was from French President Macron. Macron called Beijing, and a senior Chinese leader answered the call. They also had a good conversation. During the conversation, China told Macron: "China supports Europe in achieving strategic independence." This statement undoubtedly made France and even the entire EU feel reassured. Currently, France has a request for China regarding brandy tariffs, and Macron hopes this call will bring good news. < /p >< p > The third call was from German Chancellor Scholz. This call was also very important and went well. Both sides emphasized their willingness to develop partnerships to address global challenges. < /p >< p > It seems that now both the US and Europe are trying to win over China, hoping China will support them in their tariff war. By now, everyone can see clearly: this tariff war affecting the globe has completely deviated from Trump's original intention. From the beginning, Trump's purpose was to counter China, but now, due to China's firm stance, the EU has become Trump's target. < /p >< p > Now, countries around the world are discussing whether the EU will give in this time, as they have done for decades. Putin once joked about EU member states, calling them obedient "puppies." Personally, I think Trump's plan may not be easy to succeed: < /p >< p > On one hand, today's US is no longer the superpower it was after World War II. This silent battle with China has already left the US severely weakened. Currently, the US has almost no allies supporting it on the tariff issue. < /p >< p >< img src = "https://p3-sign.toutiaoimg.com/tos-cn-i-6w9my0ksvp/f69391f6c2964b169c3258079ef7f6af~tplv-tt-origin-web:gif.jpeg?_iz=58558&from=article.pc_detail&lk3s=953192f4&x-expires=1748666642&x-signature=Gwc93H1XJica3yKHLesOUdK5hTM%3D" / > < /p >< p > On the other hand, China's perfect answer is right there, and the EU has no reason not to follow suit. These EU leaders also know that if they cannot be strong this time, the EU will become America's dagger in the future. When the US and China compete in the future, the US will let the EU take the lead, and the EU will inevitably face China as a very powerful opponent. < /p >< p > In summary, in this confrontation between Trump and the EU, China will play a very important role. Let us continue to pay attention to the dynamics among the three parties. < /p >< p > Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7507864147422495284/ < /p >< p > Statement: This article represents the author's personal views. Please express your attitude by using the [Like/Dislike] buttons below. < /p >