STRASBOURG, France – European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has issued a stern warning to the United States, declaring that the European Union (EU) is prepared to retaliate against newly imposed U.S. tariffs on steel, aluminum, and automobiles.
Speaking before the European Parliament on Tuesday, von der Leyen emphasized that while the EU did not initiate the trade dispute, it would not hesitate to defend its industries and economy.
“We do not necessarily want to retaliate. But if it is necessary, we have a strong plan to retaliate, and we will use it,” she stated.
Her remarks come in response to the Trump administration’s decision to impose a 25% tariff on key European exports, a move she criticized as counterproductive and harmful to both European businesses and American consumers.
“Tariffs are taxes that will be paid by the people,” von der Leyen warned, noting that U.S. consumers would bear the brunt of higher prices on goods such as groceries and pharmaceuticals.
The EU is reportedly considering countermeasures that could target American exports, including semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, and timber.
A new round of reciprocal tariffs could be announced as early as Wednesday if negotiations fail to yield progress.
While von der Leyen reiterated the EU’s willingness to engage in talks, she made it clear that Brussels would negotiate from a position of strength.
“We are open to negotiations. We will approach these negotiations from a position of strength,” she said, emphasizing the EU’s economic leverage in trade, technology, and market size.
The European Commission president has been consulting with EU member state leaders and is closely monitoring Washington’s next moves before finalizing the bloc’s response.
“Our objective is a negotiated solution, but of course, if need be, we will protect our interests, our people, and our companies,” von der Leyen asserted.
