EU Preparing Further Countermeasures Against U.S. Tariffs if Negotiations Fail, Says EC President von der Leyen

The European Union is preparing additional countermeasures in response to U.S. tariffs should ongoing negotiations fail, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned today. Speaking at a press conference in Brussels, von der Leyen reaffirmed the EU's commitment to diplomacy but made it clear that Europe is ready to defend its economic interests.

Escalating Trade Tensions

The announcement comes as trade tensions between the EU and the U.S. continue to simmer. Recent tariffs imposed by Washington on European goods, particularly in sectors such as steel, aluminum, and agriculture, have drawn strong criticism from EU leaders. While both sides have been engaged in negotiations to reach a resolution, von der Leyen’s remarks indicate that Brussels is prepared to act if discussions break down.

“We prefer cooperation over confrontation, but we will not hesitate to respond if necessary,” von der Leyen stated. “Europe must stand firm in the face of unfair trade practices, and we are prepared to take proportionate countermeasures should the U.S. persist with its tariff policies.”

Potential EU Retaliatory Measures

Although von der Leyen did not specify the exact countermeasures under consideration, EU officials have previously hinted at targeted tariffs on key U.S. exports. Possible sectors that could be affected include American agricultural products, technology, and automotive goods. In past trade disputes, Brussels has imposed retaliatory duties on U.S. whiskey, motorcycles, and food products.

Trade analysts suggest that any EU countermeasures could also extend to regulatory actions, including stricter scrutiny of U.S. companies operating in the European market.

Diplomatic Efforts Still Ongoing

Despite the warning, von der Leyen emphasized that the EU remains committed to finding a negotiated settlement with Washington. Talks are currently ongoing to address trade imbalances and prevent further escalation.

European and U.S. trade officials are set to meet later this month to discuss possible compromises, including adjustments to existing tariffs and measures to promote fair competition. However, with U.S. elections on the horizon, some analysts fear that domestic political pressures could hinder progress in negotiations.

Implications for Global Trade

The outcome of these discussions will have significant implications not only for transatlantic relations but also for global trade stability. An escalation of the tariff dispute could disrupt supply chains and increase costs for businesses and consumers on both sides of the Atlantic.

Economists warn that prolonged trade tensions could contribute to broader economic uncertainty, particularly as both the EU and the U.S. navigate post-pandemic recovery efforts and geopolitical challenges.

For now, the EU remains on high alert, prepared to act if necessary but hoping that diplomacy will prevail. “We continue to extend our hand for dialogue,” von der Leyen said, “but Europe will always defend its economic sovereignty.”