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Written with AI assistance•August 18, 2025•
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Generated IllustrationNew details emerge about the July 31 call between Swiss President and Donald Trump, showing explicit financial demands preceding the implementation of 39% tariffs.
"What are you paying me?"
"I don't care about them!"
In a significant development that has sent shockwaves through Swiss diplomatic circles, new details have emerged about a controversial phone call between former US President Donald Trump and Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter. The July 31 conversation, which preceded the implementation of substantial US tariffs on Swiss imports, revealed explicit financial demands from the American side.
Contrary to initial reports, the investigation by SonntagsBlick reveals that the crucial phone call was initiated by US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, not by the Swiss side. The timing of the call, occurring just before the announcement of 39% tariffs on Swiss imports, suggests a calculated approach by the US administration. The conversation marked a significant departure from traditional diplomatic protocols between the two nations.
During the conversation, Trump made explicit financial demands, referencing the European Union's $600 billion (CHF484 million) investments. Notably, Trump characterized these as gifts rather than investments, directly asking the Swiss president 'What are you paying me?' This unprecedented approach to international diplomacy has raised concerns about the nature of US-Swiss economic relations.
The revelations have strained diplomatic relations between the two countries. Trump's dismissive response to previously negotiated agreements, stating 'I don't care about them!' when Keller-Sutter mentioned existing declarations of intent, has particularly concerned Swiss officials. The Swiss president's office has maintained diplomatic discretion, declining to comment on the specific details of the conversation.
The implications of this diplomatic incident extend beyond immediate economic concerns. The 39% tariffs, coupled with Trump's direct financial demands, have prompted Switzerland to reevaluate its economic independence and consider closer ties with the European Union. This situation represents a pivotal moment in Swiss-US relations, potentially reshaping Switzerland's international trade strategy.