EU responds to US tariffs, warns of retaliation

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has pledged a strong response to new tariffs announced by the US, emphasizing that the European Union was fully prepared to defend its citizens, companies, and interests.

In a speech to the European Parliament in Strasbourg, von der Leyen said that the EU did not seek confrontation but had the necessary tools to safeguard its prosperity. She highlighted that the EU’s strength extended beyond trade, underscoring the importance of its technology sector and European businesses, which were integral to major US tech firms that could be targets of retaliatory measures.

Von der Leyen reiterated that tariffs were essentially a tax on citizens, a burden she hoped would be alleviated through negotiations. However, she made it clear that Europe was prepared for all eventualities.

The remarks come ahead of US President Donald Trump’s plans to impose a 25% tariff on various goods, including automobiles, starting April 2. This move is part of a broader strategy by the US to “address its trade imbalances and bolster its economy.” In recent months, Trump has already imposed or announced tariffs on imports, including a 25% tax on steel and aluminum imports from several countries, including EU member states.