On July 14 (UTC+8), Dan Mullaney, former U.S. Assistant Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle East, said he believes Trump's letter to the EU was intended to push the EU to reach a better deal. Trump had previously threatened in May to impose a 50% tariff on the EU, a move that appeared to accelerate the negotiation process. However, Mullaney said the letter may encourage those within the EU who want to retaliate, who believe the U.S. is not serious about reaching an agreement. He said: "These people will feel that their views are justified." [MetaEra]