Leaders of the European Union convened in Brussels on Monday, warning against a trade war with the United States while vowing to retaliate if President Donald Trump imposes tariffs on the bloc.
Trump’s recent levies on Canada, Mexico, and China, along with his declared intention to target the EU, have sparked concerns across Europe.
French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that the EU must “stand up for itself” if attacked economically. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and EU diplomat Kaja Kallas highlighted the negative impact of trade wars, urging transatlantic cooperation instead.
Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk called potential trade conflict “unnecessary and stupid.” Despite efforts to avoid escalation through negotiations, the European Commission promised a firm response if tariffs materialize.
The meeting, initially focused on European defense amid rising tensions with Russia, was overshadowed by trade concerns. In recent weeks, Brussels has sought to diversify trade by strengthening ties with Mexico and resuming talks with Malaysia.
