Get ready to see your wine glasses fly! US President Donald Trump, namely on January 20, made a statement that amazed everyone: he intends to charge an additional 200% on French wines and Champagnes, thereby creating a disturbance not only in the market but also among vineyards worldwide. But that’s not the end—Trump continued with another proposal that looks like a part of a political thriller, stating that French President Emmanuel Macron will be a member of his fictional ‘Board of Peace’ for Gaza. The announcement has created a mess among diplomats and traders, while wine consumers fear a steep price increase. Such high tariffs? And a peace board appearance? The globe is observing, dazed and buzzing.
Trump Announces 200% Tariff on French Wines and Champagnes
U.S. President Donald Trump shocked the world on January 20 by announcing a 200% tariff on French wines and champagnes. Trump claims this move aims to pressure French President Emmanuel Macron into joining his Board of Peace initiative, designed to resolve global conflicts.
When asked about Macron declining, Trump said, “Did he say that? Well, nobody wants him because he will be out of office very soon. I’ll put a 200% tariff on his wines and champagnes, and he’ll join, but he doesn’t have to join.”
France has indicated it plans to decline the invitation, at least for now. The announcement has caused concern among European markets and consumers over potential price hikes on luxury French goods.
The Board of Peace: Trump’s Global Diplomacy Experiment
Proposed last September, the Board of Peace seeks to gather world leaders to end global conflicts. The draft charter sent to about 60 countries requires $1 billion contributions for membership longer than three years. Many diplomats warn this could undermine the United Nations and strain relations.
Macron Declines, Trump Persists
Despite France’s refusal, Trump seems undeterred, raising tensions between Washington and Paris. Analysts warn that high tariffs could disrupt trade, hurt consumers, and trigger retaliatory measures from Europe.
Expanding the Board: Putin Invited
Trump also invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to join the peace board. The inclusion of global powers adds complexity, given geopolitical tensions. Experts are watching closely, predicting either innovative conflict resolution or diplomatic backlash.
What Comes Next?
Markets and diplomats alike are on edge. Whether Macron and others accept, ignore, or challenge Trump’s plan, the initiative has already captured global attention, blending politics, economics, and diplomacy in a uniquely bold move.
(With Inputs From Reuters)
Aishwarya is a journalism graduate with over three years of experience thriving in the buzzing corporate media world. She’s got a knack for decoding business news, tracking the twists and turns of the stock market, covering the masala of the entertainment world, and sometimes her stories come with just the right sprinkle of political commentary. She has worked with several organizations, interned at ZEE and gained professional skills at TV9 and News24, And now is learning and writing at NewsX, she’s no stranger to the newsroom hustle. Her storytelling style is fast-paced, creative, and perfectly tailored to connect with both the platform and its audience. Moto: Approaching every story from the reader’s point of view, backing up her insights with solid facts.
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