President Donald Trump said the European Union was created to "screw" the United States. He revealed his hostility towards the US's long-time partner while detailing the new tariffs.

The month that Trump returned to the White House was marked by growing friction in the Western bloc, with the US abruptly shifting course on support for Ukraine and Germany's likely next leader urging Europe to seek defence independence from Washington, AFP reported.

"Look, let's be honest, the European Union was created to screw the United States. That's its purpose and they've done a good job of that. But now I'm president," Trump said while assembling his cabinet for the first time.

For decades, the US has welcomed European integration. They viewed the creation of the EU in 1993 as a historic achievement in ending conflict on a continent ravaged by two world wars.

Trump applauded Britain when it left the bloc, and pursued a hardline "America First" policy, vowing to pursue his self-interest above any abstract notions of partnership.

During his cabinet meeting, Trump pointed out that the EU "has really benefited from us."

According to official US figures, the country's trade deficit with the 27-member bloc stood at $235.6 billion last year.

Asked if he had made a decision on the EU tariff levels, Trump added: "We'll announce it very soon and it will be 25%, generally speaking."

He said among the products that will be affected will be cars. This is grim news for Germany, whose export-driven economy is in decline.

Trump has also imposed tariffs on US neighbors Canada and Mexico, as well as rival China, citing problems including illegal immigration and fentanyl smuggling. | BGNES