It's not a panegyric quite yet, but Trump is being lauded as Victor in NRC today: "Agreement with Columbia University is a victory for Trump". Unfortunately a correct observation of the sorry state of the US.

3) The precedence Japan and the EU shape, will almost force Canada, Mexico and others in similar 'deals' now. Eventually the US economy will benefit the most and Trump achieved his goal: nobody can ignore US economy for the foreseeable future. So far 'protecting' free trade, it's rather the opposits

2) The only reasoning behind accepting the 15% on EU products only and many opt-outs for the US might be that the EU wants to be the adult in the room and 'protects' free trade against madman et all. Problem remains: the (higher) tariffs might be around for more than 4 years....

The only thing what matters right now is how Trump 'feels' the template deal.

He will agree with a Japan style deal (including 15% on cars/parts) if it will make him look stronger (Epstein saga in mind)

Trump is erratic so the EU might strike a relatively good deal because of Epstein. Sick world