In a dramatic escalation of trade tensions, European leaders have fiercely criticized the new U.S. tariffs, warning that the measures could trigger a global economic downturn. U.S. President Donald Trump recently announced a sweeping 20% tariff on imports from the European Union, following earlier tariffs on steel, aluminum, and auto parts.
EU chief Ursula von der Leyen described the levies as a "major blow to the world economy" and expressed deep regret over the decision, calling for a tempered, negotiation-driven response. "There seems to be no order in the disorder," she noted during a visit to Uzbekistan. The bloc is now gearing up with potential countermeasures while keeping open channels for diplomatic talks.
German leadership, represented by economy minister Robert Habeck, and French officials emphasize the need for a negotiated solution. Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has stressed that "nobody wins in a trade war," urging a pragmatic approach. Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni decried the tariffs as wrong and vowed to work with partners to secure a balanced response, even as industry experts warned that further escalation could have far-reaching economic consequences.
Industry groups have echoed these warnings, predicting that retaliatory measures might flood markets with cheap imports and disrupt global supply chains. As European nations brace for possible counter-tariffs, they remain determined to balance diplomatic negotiations with decisive action to protect their economies.
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Europe hits out at Trump tariffs, warns it will hurt the world economy
cgtn.com
