Trade tensions between Europe and the United States have escalated after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on European imports, including cars and other goods. European countries have vowed to respond “firmly and immediately” to what they consider unjustified trade barriers.
Speaking at a White House cabinet meeting on Wednesday, President Trump claimed that the European Union has “taken advantage” of the United States by blocking American cars and agricultural products. In response, European Commission spokesperson Olof Gill highlighted the significant profits American businesses gain from investments in Europe.
“By creating a large and integrated single market, the European Union has facilitated trade, reduced costs for EU exporters, and harmonized standards and regulations across all our member states. As a result, U.S. investments in Europe are highly profitable,” Gill emphasized during a press briefing on Thursday.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, speaking in Washington, underscored the shared values between Europe and the United States and warned against isolation. “We are ready to respond firmly and immediately against unjust barriers to free and fair trade,” she stated.
France and Spain echoed the EU’s stance on retaliation, calling for unity to defend Europe’s interests. French Economy Minister Eric Lombard, attending the G20 finance minister meeting in Cape Town, South Africa, stressed that the EU must protect its interests. “We need to have a firm and proportionate reaction,” he said.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, speaking in the Basque Region of northern Spain, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to open trade and cooperation. “We will not abandon that route, because we will keep on looking for collaboration between countries, commercial openness, and a multilateral system that is more important than ever,” Sanchez declared.
Italian Minister of Enterprises and Made in Italy Adolfo Urso expressed concern over escalating trade tensions, noting that Italy, with its export-driven economy, is “obviously worried.” He emphasized the need to avoid a trade war and called for Western unity.
However, some Italian industrial leaders are urging a stronger response. Emanuele Orsini, president of the Italian industry association Confindustria, warned that Trump’s tariffs could disrupt trade dynamics and threaten European businesses and jobs. “Europe must change gear: time is up. The measures announced today in Brussels are insufficient,” he stated, calling it a “dark hour” for Europe.
