EU Gives Shocking Response to US Amid Growing Tariff Tension
EU Backs Down Under Pressure from Trump’s Trade Crackdown
President Donald Trump’s sweeping new tariffs have triggered an urgent response from the European Union, with top officials signaling they are open to negotiations amid growing concerns about the economic fallout.
In a clear shift in tone, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced Monday that the EU is “ready to negotiate with the United States,” adding that Europe “is always ready for a good deal.” Her remarks came just days after the U.S. implemented a series of tariffs that affected a wide range of European exports.
WINNING. EU’s Ursula Von Der LIAR concedes to President Trump’s Tariffs Deal. pic.twitter.com/6xIYBJvUzW
— Liz Churchill (@liz_churchill10) April 7, 2025
Trump’s decision to level significant new tariffs—some as high as 25 percent—has put roughly 70 percent of European exports to the U.S. under strain, according to Trending Politics. EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič admitted the bloc is in a “tough spot,” revealing the extent to which the measures have limited the EU’s trade leverage.
Speaking to reporters ahead of meetings with U.S. officials, Šefčovič said, “The E.U.-U.S. trade relationship could benefit from a fresh look and a boost in strategic areas,” pointing out that both economies face similar pressures.
The European Union is now scrambling to strengthen its internal market as it prepares for what could be a protracted negotiation process. Von der Leyen is set to meet later this week with leaders from other EU member states to discuss removing remaining trade barriers within the bloc.
The talks are expected to focus on fortifying the single market and minimizing economic vulnerabilities exposed by the tariffs, according to TP.
Despite voicing a willingness to negotiate, von der Leyen issued a warning that the EU would not hesitate to take countermeasures if necessary.
“The tariffs come … at immense costs for US consumers and businesses,” she said, adding that while cooperation remains the goal, the EU “stand[s] ready to respond through countermeasures and defend our interests.”
Trump, addressing the growing tension, took to Truth Social to reaffirm his position and urge Americans to stay firm on trade.
The United States has a chance to do something that should have been done DECADES AGO. Don’t be Weak! Don’t be Stupid! Don’t be a PANICAN (A new party based on Weak and Stupid people!). Be Strong, Courageous, and Patient, and GREATNESS will be the result!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 7, 2025
“The United States has a chance to do something that should have been done DECADES AGO,” he wrote. “Don’t be Weak!”
“Don’t be Stupid! Don’t be a PANICAN (A new party based on Weak and Stupid people!).”
“Be Strong, Courageous, and Patient, and GREATNESS will be the result!”
Europe had previously floated a “zero-for-zero” tariff proposal on industrial goods, a framework the bloc has used with other trading partners in past agreements. Von der Leyen highlighted this offer during a meeting with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, signaling Europe’s intent to deescalate the trade rift without appearing to retreat.
The ripple effects of Trump’s tariff policy have reached other global allies as well. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced her country would not retaliate with reciprocal tariffs after the U.S. imposed a 25 percent duty on aluminum and steel from Mexico.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who recently suspended most U.S. tariffs affecting his country, is scheduled to meet with Trump at the White House. The meeting will provide Netanyahu with the first opportunity among world leaders to discuss trade terms directly with the president, Fox News reports.
With the EU now signaling a willingness to come to the table, Trump’s aggressive approach is forcing world leaders to reexamine long-standing trade relationships.
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