EU Calls for Respectful Trade Talks Amid Growing Dispute
The European Union has renewed its commitment to a fair trade agreement with the United States. EU Urges ‘Respect emphasized that any deal must be built on mutual respect, not threats. In response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of a proposed 50% tariff on all EU imports starting June 1, the EU urges ‘respect’ in trade negotiations and a shift away from economic intimidation
EU Stresses Cooperation Over Confrontation
EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic, after talks with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, said the EU remains fully engaged in the process.EU-US trade is unmatched. It must be guided by respect, not intimidation,” he said. “We are ready to defend our interests.”
Trump, frustrated by slow progress in the talks, said the discussions were “going nowhere.” He confirmed his plan to enforce the new tariffs but hinted he might reconsider if a major European firm invests in the U.S.
European Leaders Push Back
Leaders across Europe warned that steep tariffs would damage both economies.
- Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin called for continued talks.
- French Foreign Minister Laurent Saint-Martin supported de-escalation but made it clear the EU would respond if needed.
- German Economy Minister Katherina Reiche urged a diplomatic solution.
- Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof backed the EU’s unified approach and reminded reporters that tariffs have fluctuated in past talks.
Existing Tariffs and Possible EU Retaliation
Though Trump paused a previous round of tariffs until July 8, a 10% base tariff still applies to many EU products. The U.S. also maintains a 25% tariff on European steel and aluminium. In response, the EU has prepared a 25% tariff on €18 billion worth of U.S. goods. The bloc is also considering additional tariffs on €95 billion more in imports.
Former Trump advisor Stephen Moore suggested the U.S. might seek deals with individual EU countries. But the EU insists on negotiating as a unified bloc.
Market Reaction and Future Outlook
Markets reacted negatively to the rising tensions. The S&P 500 dropped 0.7%, while Germany’s DAX and France’s CAC 40 fell more than 1.5%. The EU remains firm in its goal of finding a balanced and respectful resolution to prevent a damaging trade war.
