Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, stated that the universal tariffs imposed by US President Trump represent a significant setback for the global economy, which she believes will face severe repercussions.
Earlier, President Trump announced a minimum tariff of 10% on most goods imported into the United States, with a higher rate of 20% specifically for the European Union. This development heightens an ongoing global trade conflict that could raise inflation rates and hinder economic growth both in the US and worldwide.
The EU chief warned that the fallout would be catastrophic for millions, including some of the world’s most vulnerable populations, expressing her deep disappointment with the US decision.
Ms. von der Leyen acknowledged her agreement with President Trump that certain countries have exploited current international trade regulations and emphasized that the EU is prepared to negotiate significant changes.
“I am open to supporting any initiatives aimed at aligning the global trading system with the realities of the global economy,” she stated, but cautioned, “Resorting to tariffs as your primary and sole solution will not resolve the issues.”
She further noted that the EU has consistently been willing to engage in discussions with the US to eliminate the remaining obstacles to transatlantic trade and highlighted that Commission Vice President and Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič is “constantly in touch” with his American counterparts to seek resolutions.
The tariffs introduced by the US represent a significant setback for businesses and consumers around the world.
Europe is ready to retaliate.
We will always safeguard our interests and principles. We are also prepared to engage.
And transition from confrontation to negotiation ↓
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) April 3, 2025
Donald Trump has revealed a 20% tariff on goods imported from the European Union into the US.
Simultaneously, the EU Commission president declared that the EU is prepared to implement countermeasures should negotiations prove unsuccessful.
Ms. von der Leyen mentioned that the commission has finalized a response package to the previously announced 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum and is now working on a plan to address the 20% tariffs on EU products introduced by President Trump.
“We are in the final stages of preparing our first package of countermeasures against the steel tariffs,” Ms. von der Leyen stated during a press conference in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, ahead of a EU-Central Asia partnership summit.
“We are also gearing up for additional countermeasures to safeguard our interests and businesses if dialogue fails.”
She added that the commission would monitor any secondary effects stemming from the US decision, affirming, “we will not tolerate market dumping.”
Nevertheless, the EU chief emphasized that “it is not too late to address concerns through negotiations.”
Read more: EU tariff response to dominate Commissioner McGrath’s Dublin visit. Targeting of the EU by a former close ally follows a series of insults and threats. US tariff initiative marks the first phase in a trade conflict with the EU.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni criticized the tariffs and advocated for a resolution, warning that a trade war would ultimately undermine the West.
“The US’s imposition of tariffs on the EU is a misguided measure that does not benefit either party,” she asserted in a statement on social media.
“We will exhaust every effort to secure an agreement with the United States, aiming to avert a trade war that would disadvantage the West in comparison to other global competitors.”
Ms. Meloni indicated that Italy would engage with other European partners on the issue, asserting that regardless of the outcome, “we will act in the best interest of Italy and its economy.”
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced plans to meet with EU Trade Chief Šefčovič in Brussels.
Italy is “already collaborating with the EU and other European partners to assess the situation and formulate a collective response,” he wrote on X.
“We need a response grounded in pragmatism and dialogue,” Mr. Tajani emphasized, calling for “constructive negotiations” that consider US concerns while also protecting European interests.
Ms. Meloni, leader of the post-fascist Brothers of Italy party, has previously endeavored to avoid criticizing Mr. Trump, positioning herself instead as a mediator between the EU and the US.
