British rule

US President Donald Trump has issued an ultimatum to the European Union, demanding the ratification of a trade deal by July 4th. Failure to meet this deadline will result in significantly "much higher" tariffs being imposed by the United States. Trump communicated this deadline to EU chief Ursula von der Leyen, setting the date to coincide with the United States' 250th birthday. This development arises as European officials have reportedly fallen short of reaching an agreement on the pact. The news is significant as it highlights ongoing trade tensions between the US and the EU, with potential economic repercussions for both blocs. The threat of increased tariffs underscores the high stakes involved in these trade negotiations and the potential for unilateral action by the US administration.