EU Prepares for Negotiations with Trump to Avoid Trade War

Brussels pushes for dialogue but is ready to retaliate against possible US sanctions

Feb 5, 2025 - 13:34
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EU Prepares for Negotiations with Trump to Avoid Trade War
Photo taken from public sources

After Donald Trump confirmed his plans to impose tariffs on EU goods, the European Commission announced that it is ready to respond firmly to any unfair trade restrictions.

What Is the EU’s Position?

Upon arriving in Warsaw, European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maroš Šefčovič stated that Brussels aims for early negotiations to avoid disrupting the vital economic ties between the US and the EU.

According to him, Trump exaggerates the US trade deficit with Europe. Considering the total trade volume of €1.5 trillion, the actual deficit is only 3%, while in goods and services, it amounts to around €50 billion.

"We are ready for constructive engagement, but if we are hit with unfair measures, we will respond firmly," Šefčovič warned.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also emphasized that the EU is prepared for tough negotiations with Trump on tariff policies. Brussels aims to find compromises in strategic areas, from supply chains to technology, while defending its economic interests.

How Are European Leaders Reacting?

At an EU summit in Brussels, European leaders warned the US about the consequences of potential sanctions.

  • French President Emmanuel Macron stated that Europe must command respect and respond if its commercial interests are harmed.
  • German Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized that the EU is strong enough to counter US tariffs, but he stressed the importance of productive cooperation.

How Is Brussels Planning to Negotiate with Washington?

According to Bloomberg, the European Commission has proposed expanding US imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG), fertilizers, and weapons.

Other possible measures include:

  • Coordinating export controls and foreign investment screening with the US.
  • Joint action to limit China’s industrial exports, especially in steel production.

Additionally, the EU may use its proven strategy from previous trade disputes by targeting politically sensitive American products—just as it did in 2018 with Harley-Davidson and Levi’s.

What Strategy Will the EU Choose?

The EU is likely to extend the suspension of its tariffs on US products beyond March to avoid escalating tensions and maintain a positive approach to negotiations.

However, everything will depend on Trump’s next moves. Whether these new tariffs are merely a negotiation tactic or a sign of serious trade restrictions remains the key question for Brussels.

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ALTN.News Сетевое издание «Интернет ресурс ALTN News - (https://altn.news) Свидетельство о постановке на учет периодического печатного издания, информационного агентства и сетевого издания № KZ32VPY00091991 выдано 26.04.2024 г. Комитетом информации Министерства культуры и информации Республики Казахстан.