The president’s threats to slap duties on goods imported from the European Union are part of a pattern of directing the harshest penalties at the United States’ closest allies.

European leaders were bracing for U.S. tariffs after sweeping levies imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, affecting billions of dollars in trade between Mexico, China and Canada, roiled global markets and currencies.

Last-minute phone calls pull the North American neighbours back from the brink of a trade war, but the US is still targeting Chinese imports.