European Union trade ministers convene this Monday to chart a course amid mounting trade tensions with the United States. President Donald Trump's announcement of potential 30% tariffs on EU imports has disrupted months of talks and prompted Brussels to prepare a fresh package of countermeasures.
In a bid to keep negotiations alive, the EU extended its suspension of existing countermeasures until early August, giving both sides a brief window to reach a deal. Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the bloc's "two-track" strategy: press on with dialogue while gearing up for robust retaliation if needed.
France and Germany have already signaled support for a firm stance. French President Emmanuel Macron urged the Commission to "resolutely defend European interests," and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has engaged with key leaders in Washington to find a solution within the next two and a half weeks.
German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil warned that, should negotiations falter, the EU must be ready to implement decisive measures to shield European jobs and businesses. Talks will continue at multiple levels, from technical negotiators to heads of state, as the clock ticks toward the August 1 deadline.
As ministers weigh their options, the EU's unified response will not only influence transatlantic trade but also set precedents for global tariff disputes. With less than a month before the potential levies kick in, all eyes are on whether diplomacy can prevail over tariffs.
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EU trade ministers weigh response to latest Trump tariff threat
cgtn.com
