US President Donald Trump on Thursday authorized the suspension of controversial tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from key trade partners including the European Union.

Trump shocked the world with his sudden announcement earlier this month of a 10-percent levy on aluminum and 25-percent tariff on steel, angering Washington’s closest allies, which swiftly demanded that they be exempt.

“The tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from the following countries are suspended until May 1, 2018,” the White House said in a statement, listing EU members states, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Mexico and South Korea.

“Each of these countries has an important security relationship with the United States,” a proclamation from Trump announcing the steel decision said.