Rome, Mar 25 (Prensa Latina) - Italian President Sergio Mattarella warned of the severe consequences for Italy, Europe, and the world stemming from the US government's protectionist trade policies, emphasizing that a "trade war" should be understood as a "war" in its true sense. He made these remarks during a dialogue with students at an agricultural exhibition, the day before the 68th anniversary celebration of the Treaties of Rome, the EU's founding conventions. Mattarella stressed that open markets and cooperation are vital for both peace and Italy's interests as an exporting nation, particularly in light of tariff increases announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, while also urging calm and avoiding excessive concern.