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Trump trade war goes global as he slaps 25% tariffs on aluminium and steel with fears for UK industry as EU hits back

DONALD Trump has extended his punishing trade war to now impact on the entire world as fears grow for key UK industries.

The US president announced he is placing 25 per cent tariffs on all steel and aluminium imports coming in to the US – with the EU already hitting back hard.

United States President Donald Trump climbs out of a Tesla Model S on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, D.C. on March 11, 2025. President Trump has said he will buy a Tesla to support Tesla and Elon Musk after recent attacks on Tesla charging stations and calls for boycotts of Tesla products. Credit: Samuel Corum / Pool via CNP. 11 Mar 2025 Pictured: United States President Donald Trump speaks in front of a group of Tesla vehicles with Elon Musk, Tesla CEO and Senior Advisor to the President of the United States, on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, D.C. on March 11, 2025. President Trump has said he will buy a Tesla to support Tesla and Elon Musk after recent attacks on Tesla charging stations and calls for boycotts of Tesla products. Credit: Samuel Corum / Pool via CNP. Photo credit: Samuel Corum - Pool via CNP / MEGA TheMegaAgency.com sales@mega.global
Donald Trump has extended his punishing trade war to now impact on the entire world
The Mega Agency
Welder cutting a railroad track with a torch.
Getty
The US President announced he is placing 25 per cent tariffs on all steel and aluminium imports coming in to the US[/caption]
Ursula von der Leyen speaking at a press conference.
Getty
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has already hit back at Trump’s tariffs saying the EU ‘must act’ to protect consumers and business[/caption]

The European Union has announced a huge two-stage retaliation against the US which will cover €26 billion in EU exports.

From April 1, the European Commission says it will reimpose tariffs in response to Trump’s global tariffs.

This will have a direct impact on many iconic American brands such as Harley-Davidson.

Then from mid-April, further countermeasures will be applied if Eu member states all approve.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said today: “We deeply regret this measure.

“Tariffs are taxes. They are bad for business, and even worse for consumers.

“These tariffs are disrupting supply chains. They bring uncertainty for the economy.

Jobs are at stake. Prices will go up. In Europe and in the United States.

“The European Union must act to protect consumers and business.”

They added that any decision can always be reversed if the Trump administration is ready to “find a negotiated solution”.

Trump’s tariffs are also set to have a huge impact on the UK steel industry.

They have already warned the decision to impose a transatlantic trade war “couldn’t come at a worse time”.

The British government has already said they don’t want to retaliate and would rather come to an amicable solution.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced last week that tit-for-tat tariffs only risk slowing down the whole global economy.

She said she didn’t think tariffs “serves anyone well”.

Adding: “We don’t want to see tariffs. I will continue to make the case with all my international counterparts for free and open trade.”

President Trump initially only targeted Mexico, Canada and China with his trade war before opening them up to the world.

His plan is designed to protect US manufacturing and bolster job opportunities by making internationally made products more expensive and less attractive to buy.

It will also threaten to make the cost of many things such as cars more expensive.

On Tuesday, Trump again threatened Canada with historic financial punishment as they threatened to impose their own 25 per cent tariffs on electricity in three US states.

The brewing trade war between the two neighbouring countries deepened this week after Trump doubled the 25 per cent levy on Canadian steel and aluminium.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford speaking at a podium with a sign reading "Canada is not for sale" in English and French.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford warned he ‘will not hesitate to increase’ the levies on electricity for Americans
President Trump and Elon Musk standing by a Tesla.
The Mega Agency
Trump’s decision came after he spent the day with pal Elon Musk[/caption]
President Donald Trump exiting a red Tesla.
The Mega Agency
Trump was testing out the Tesla Model S with Musk at the White House[/caption]

It came in response to the Ontario government’s threat of an electricity surcharge.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford soon said he was temporarily suspending his province’s planned purchase on electricity exported to the US after Trump’s fiery response.

Ford made a U-turn on the threats after US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick agreed to go back to the table on trade talks.

Ford said that Canadian delegates will travel to Washington within the next day or two to meet with Lutnick.

Trump’s seismic trade war came as he spent the day on the White House lawn trying out Teslas with right-hand man Elon Musk.

Musk brought an entire fleet of the electric vehicles to let the president have his pick of the motors.

Trump’s support for his advisor comes after Tesla faced backlash and vandalism over Musk’s new role in the Oval Office.

As the head of the brand new Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), Musk has slashed federal jobs and budgets in Trump’s first few months of his second term.

Growing fears and concerns over Doge’s plans have sparked a series of attacks on Tesla across the country, including vandalism at Tesla showrooms and charging stations.

Tesla stock has lost more than half its stock since peaking in December – wiping out over $800 billion from the company’s total value, according to CNBC.

Why has Trump hit China, Canada, and Mexico with tariffs?

DONALD Trump has imposed a 25 per cent tariff on Chinese imports to the US and has threatened even bigger tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminium. But, why did he propose the levies?

China:

  • Trump believes China has not done enough to stop the production of chemicals used to make the drug fentanyl.
  • China serves as a major supplier of auto parts to the US.
  • Phones and computers along with other key electronic devices were also in the top imports from China last year, according to Commerce Department Data.
  • In 2023, the US imported around $427 billion worth of products from China in total, according to the US Census Bureau.
  • Data reveals that 78 per cent of all smartphones imported from the US came from China.
  • Trump’s tariff threat has sparked fears of price rises for fashion items and toys.
  • Beijing has responded by outlining its own tariffs on American goods, sparking fears of an all-out trade war between the two powerhouses.

Canada:

  • Trump doubled his initial 25 per cent tariff proposal on Canadian steel and aluminium after Ontario Premier Doug Ford countered by charging 25 per cent more for the electricity his province provides to about 1.5 million Americans in Minnesota, New York, and Michigan.
  • Ford, on the other hand, instructed Ontario’s Independent Electricity System to implement a $7-per-megawatt-per-hour fee on all power exports to the three US states.
  • Trump ignited a trade war with Canada and Mexico during his first days in office as part of a campaign promise to stop the flow of fentanyl and illegal immigrants into the United States.
  • He said both countries had not done enough to halt the drug flow and the mass influx of migrants from reaching US soil.

Mexico:

  • Mexico has managed to twice postpone Trump’s tariffs on Mexican goods.
  • On February 1, Trump signed an executive order to impose tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China.
  • But, on February 3, Trump agreed to pause the levies against Canada and Mexico after the countries took steps to appease Trump’s concerns on border security and drug trafficking.
  • Trump credited Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum’s progress on border security and drug smuggling as a reason for the pause on the levies.
  • Still, Trump has maintained that on April 2 the US will begin imposing reciprocal tariffs on all its trading partners, including Mexico.
President Trump speaks near a Tesla, holding a price list.
Getty
Trump holding notes on the pricing of Tesla vehicles on the South Lawn of the White House[/caption]
Donald Trump and Elon Musk in a red Tesla.
President Donald Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk speaking to the press inside a Tesla Model S at the White House

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A 14p hack will remove limescale from your shower screen – it will ‘slide off’ in seconds

NO matter how much you scrub the limescale on your shower screen, it can seem impossible to remove.

One woman has shared the DIY hack she uses to tackle stubborn water stains in her bathroom.

Person hand using limescale remover chemical foam. Descaling shower case glass door. Work in progress.
Instagram user Laura Sibley shared the DIY hack she swears by for cleaning shower screens (stock image)
GETTY

In her viral video, Instagram user Laura Sibley (@fromwifetolife) demonstrated the budget-friendly cleaning technique.

“If you hate cleaning your shower screen, I have the answer,” she told her followers.

She explained that her “simple and cheap hack” makes all watermarks “slide right off like magic”.

Laura said she was “seriously impressed” by the results every time she showers.

The Instagrammer revealed that instead of tackling limescale with cleaning products or white vinegar, she opts for a baking item.

And no, it’s not baking soda.

Laura recommended using a sheet of grease proof paper to scrub your shower screen.

She demonstrated how to scrunch up the paper and rub it until “the water slides off” the surface.

You can pick up a roll of Greaseproof Baking Paper from Asda for £1.45, which breaks down to just 14p per metre.

And since you can tackle your screen with the same piece, this hack only using part of your roll.

Laura described cleaning her shower screen as her “least favourite job” since her household has “ridiculously hard water”.

However, the Instagrammer now swears by this hack for easing the process.

She explained how the task is now less “faffy” and can be completed in seconds.

Laura showed her followers her new and improved shower screen after completing the task.

Instagram users shared their thoughts on the method in the comments section.

More bathroom cleaning tips

Keeping a bathroom clean and fresh can sometimes feel like a daunting task, but with a few practical tips and a regular cleaning schedule, it can be much more manageable.

1. Regular Maintenance

Daily Wipe-Down: A quick daily wipe-down of surfaces, such as the sink, countertops, and taps, can prevent the build-up of grime and soap scum. Keep a microfibre cloth handy for this purpose.

Ventilation: Ensure that your bathroom is well-ventilated to prevent mould and mildew. Open windows or use an extractor fan during and after showers.

2. Tackling Limescale and Hard Water Stains

Vinegar Solution: Hard water can cause limescale build-up on taps and showerheads. Soak a cloth in white vinegar and wrap it around the affected areas for a few hours, then scrub with a brush.

Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is another effective natural cleaner for limescale. Apply it directly to the affected areas, let it sit for a while, and then rinse off.

3. Cleaning the Toilet

Toilet Cleaner: Use a specialised toilet cleaner to scrub the bowl. Apply the cleaner under the rim and allow it to sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with a toilet brush.

Bicarbonate of Soda and Vinegar: For a natural alternative, sprinkle bicarbonate of soda into the bowl, then add vinegar. The fizzing action helps to lift stains and disinfect.

4. Shower and Bath

Showerhead: Remove mineral deposits by soaking the showerhead in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. You can do this by filling a plastic bag with the solution and securing it around the showerhead with a rubber band.

Bathtub: Use a non-abrasive cleaner to scrub the bathtub. For stubborn stains, make a paste with bicarbonate of soda and water, apply it to the stains, and let it sit before scrubbing.

5. Tiles and Grout

Grout Cleaner: Grout can harbour mould and mildew. Use a grout cleaner or a mixture of bicarbonate of soda and water to scrub the grout lines. An old toothbrush can be particularly effective for this task.

Tile Cleaner: Regularly clean tiles with a mild detergent or a vinegar solution to keep them shiny and free of soap scum.

6. Mirrors and Glass

Glass Cleaner: Use a glass cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and water to clean mirrors and glass surfaces. Wipe with a microfibre cloth to avoid streaks.

Shower Doors: Prevent soap scum build-up on glass shower doors by using a squeegee to remove water after each use.

7. Floors

Sweep and Mop: Sweep the bathroom floor regularly to remove hair and dust. Mop with a mild detergent or a suitable floor cleaner to maintain cleanliness.

8. Trash and Laundry

Empty Bins: Empty bathroom bins regularly to prevent nasty smelling odours.

Laundry: Keep a small laundry basket in the bathroom for used towels and bathmats, and wash them regularly.

9. Finishing Touches

Air Fresheners: Utilise air fresheners or essential oil diffusers to maintain a pleasant fragrance in the bathroom.

Organisation: Ensure toiletries and cleaning supplies are neatly organised and stored to minimise clutter and facilitate easier cleaning.

“OMG, I’m doing this today,” wrote one inspired viewer.

Another impressed follower described the technique as “actual witchcraft”.

“What is this magic?” asked a third commenter.

“That’s a great hack,” said another Instagram user.

“No flipping way. How did you know to do this? You need to write a book,” commented one viewer.

Woman holding greaseproof baking paper, suggesting its use for cleaning shower screens.
The Instagram user recommended using greaseproof baking paper to remove hard water stains
Instagram/@fromwifetolife
Woman cleaning shower door with a paper towel.
Laura demonstrated how to use the greaseproof paper to remove limsecale build up in your shower
Instagram/@fromwifetolife

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Why Liverpool vs PSG penalty shootout wasn’t in front of Anfield’s Kop End

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - MARCH 11: Ousmane Dembele #10 of Paris Saint-Germain celebrates after scoring a penalty kick with Gianluigi Donnarumma #1 after the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Round of 16 Second Leg match between Liverpool FC and Paris Saint-Germain at Anfield on March 11, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Xavier Laine/Getty Images)
Ousmane Dembele and Gianluigi Donnarumma were key performers in PSG penalty shootout win over Liverpool (Picture: Getty)

Jamie Carragher confessed he couldn’t understand why last night’s dramatic Champions League penalty shootout between Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain wasn’t held in front of Anfield’s Kop End.

The former Reds defender watched the entirety of the second leg from the famous stand as the French champions bounced back from last week’s defeat which Carragher, himself, described as a robbery.

Ousmane Dembele’s scrambled 12th minute effort was, ultimately, the only goal of the evening as both sides passed up presentable opportunities to negate the need for extra time.

After a goalless additional 30 minutes the last 16 tie went to penalties and it was PSG who prevailed after they converted all four of their spot kick and capitalised on the two superb saves made by Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Carragher confessed Luis Enrique’s side were the better team over two legs and deserved to progress but hinted the outcome may have been different had PSG not been able to take the penalties in front of their own fans.

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The Ligue 1 giants also had the advantage of taking the first penalty which immediately put pressure on Liverpool after Vitinha outfoxed Alisson Becker from 12 yards.

‘One thing I couldn’t work out with the penalties was obviously it was a toss up with Virgil van Dijk so PSG must’ve won to take it at the other end,’ Carragher told CBS.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - MARCH 11: PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma stops his first penalty kick during the penalty shootout ot the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Round of 16 Second Leg match between Liverpool FC and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) at Anfield on March 11, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Jean Catuffe/Getty Images)
Gianluigi Donnarumma saved Darwin Nunez’s penalty for Liverpool (Picture: Getty)
Alamy Live News. 3A24M65 LIVERPOOL, UK - 11th Mar 2025: Gianluigi Donnarumma of PSG saves the penalty of Curtis Jones of Liverpool in the shoot-out during the UEFA Champions League last-16 second leg match between Liverpool FC and Paris Saint-Germain at Anfield (Credit: Craig Mercer/ Alamy Live News) This is an Alamy Live News image and may not be part of your current Alamy deal . If you are unsure, please contact our sales team to check.
Curtis Jones saw his penalty saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma (Credit: Craig Mercer/ Alamy Live News)

‘But also took the first penalty so I wasn’t quite sure what had happened there, normally you get one advantage.’

Prior to the shootout, however, former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg explained there are actually two separate coin tosses to determine the end the penalties are taken from and who gets to shoot first.

He told Amazon Prime: ‘I think Liverpool would love it at the Kop of course but it’s down to the referee.

‘It’s the referee’s call on which side it is on the coin. It will be one side for one side of the coin and the other side of the pitch for the other side of the coin.

‘Then the captain’s will decide and if he’s the lucky one he’ll decide either to take the first or second penalty. But it’s the referee’s call on the first coin toss at which end it will be.’

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LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - MARCH 11: Gianluigi Donnarumma and Desire Doue of Paris Saint-Germain react after winning the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Round of 16 Second Leg match between Liverpool FC and Paris Saint-Germain at Anfield on March 11, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Aurelien Meunier - PSG/PSG via Getty Images)
Gianluigi Donnarumma and Desire Doue were the shootout heroes for PSG (Picture: Getty)

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot, meanwhile admitted there was a sense of shock after his side suffered a rare setback in what has been a season of almost uninterrupted success.

Slot said it was difficult to separate the two teams after 90 minutes and while he accepted his opponents edged extra time still felt harsh.

‘Of course it is shock,’ he said. ‘It is maybe not the moment to tell them now but two seasons ago we went out to Real (Madrid) after losing 5-2 at home so if you have to go out, go out the way we did against one of the best teams in Europe and making such a fight.

‘I hope every fan around the world was hoping this game wouldn’t stop because it was incredible.

‘Two teams had an incredible level and intensity in the first 25 minutes. I also remember the first 25 against Manchester City and Real Madrid but this was unbelievable what we showed in the first 25.

‘Over 90 minutes I don’t think we deserved to lose, over 180 maybe it was deserved we went to extra time.

‘In extra time I thought maybe PSG was better than us. Then it comes down to penalties and they scored four.’

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