“I deeply regret this choice,” President von der Leyen said, warning that the US decision to impose universal tariffs would have "immense consequences" for economies worldwide. "The global economy will massively suffer," she stated, adding that the tariffs would fuel uncertainty, trigger rising protectionism, and inflict hardship on millions, particularly in vulnerable countries now facing some of the highest US trade barriers.
Von der Leyen cautioned that consumers around the world would be hit almost immediately. “Millions of citizens will face higher grocery bills. Medication will cost more, as will transportation. Inflation will go up. And this is hurting, in particular, the most vulnerable citizens,” she noted.
Businesses, regardless of size, are also expected to suffer. “From greater uncertainty to the disruption of supply chains to burdensome bureaucracy, the cost of doing business with the United States will drastically increase,” she said. The President lamented the lack of a coherent strategy from the US administration, describing the current situation as having "no order in the disorder."
The statement also acknowledged flaws in the global trading system. “I agree with President Trump that others are taking unfair advantage of the current rules,” von der Leyen said, expressing readiness to reform global trade frameworks. However, she was firm in criticising the use of tariffs as a primary tool. “Reaching for tariffs as your first and last tool will not fix it,” she said.
Von der Leyen reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to dialogue and de-escalation. “We have always been ready to negotiate with the US to remove any remaining barriers to Transatlantic trade.” Still, she made it clear that the EU is prepared to defend its interests. “We are finalising a first package of countermeasures in response to tariffs on steel, and we are preparing further steps.”
Addressing Europeans directly, von der Leyen called for unity: “If you take on one of us, you take on all of us. Our unity is our strength.” She emphasised the resilience of the EU, pointing to its 450 million-strong Single Market as a key asset.
In a bid to shield key industries, the EU has already introduced protective measures, including limiting duty-free steel imports and pledging support for the automotive and pharmaceutical sectors. Strategic dialogues with affected industries are also being convened.
Von der Leyen concluded on a hopeful note, urging a return to negotiations. “It is not too late to address concerns through dialogue. Let’s move from confrontation to negotiation.”
The escalating trade standoff is expected to dominate upcoming EU-US discussions as the global community watches closely for signs of a breakthrough.
ALCHEMPro News Desk (KD)
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