In response to the new tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, the European Union is preparing countermeasures, although it has expressed willingness to engage in negotiations.
On Thursday, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen made the statement during a summit with Central Asian leaders in Uzbekistan. She referred to Trump’s decision as a “significant blow” to businesses and consumers globally.
Von der Leyen stressed that Europe is prepared to take action to protect its interests, warning that the tariffs would increase costs for citizens, particularly for essential goods such as groceries, medication, and transportation. Additionally, she noted that the tariffs would likely drive up inflation, affecting the most vulnerable populations. The EU is finalizing its first set of retaliatory measures, with further steps being planned to safeguard European businesses if talks with the U.S. fail, she explained.
Reassuring citizens, von der Leyen urged them not to lose confidence, assuring that Europe is equipped to endure these challenges. She also mentioned that discussions are underway with the automotive and pharmaceutical sectors, which are expected to bear the brunt of the tariff impact.
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President Trump unveiled his new tariff plan on Wednesday, imposing a blanket 10 percent tariff on most imports to the U.S., with higher rates for countries running significant trade deficits. For the European Union, imports will face a 20 percent tariff under the new measures.
