European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on Sunday that the European Union is postponing retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods, which were set to go into effect on Tuesday. The move is a response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to impose 30% tariffs on EU imports starting August 1.
The EU’s countermeasures — originally targeting €21 billion worth of American exports — were first suspended in March and will now remain on hold until early August, von der Leyen said during a press conference.
“We’ve received a letter from the United States detailing the steps they will take if a negotiated solution is not found,” said von der Leyen. “Therefore, we are extending the suspension of our countermeasures until early August, while continuing preparations in case they become necessary.”
The decision comes as EU Trade Ministers prepare to meet Monday in Brussels to determine their next course of action.
President Trump, in a letter addressed to von der Leyen, reiterated his administration’s concerns over the U.S. trade deficit with the EU, calling it a national security threat, and warned that if Europe retaliates, he will raise tariffs even higher.
In an interview aired Saturday on Fox News, Trump stated that “several countries are now very nervous,” but insisted that the tariffs are bringing “hundreds of billions of dollars” into the U.S. economy.
Von der Leyen reaffirmed the EU’s preference for a negotiated settlement and stressed that the EU will remain committed to dialogue, but fully prepared to act if talks fail.
German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil echoed this stance, saying on Sunday that while negotiations are still essential, “firm countermeasures” may be required to protect European jobs and industries.
French President Emmanuel Macron also urged the Commission to defend European interests firmly in light of Trump’s escalating trade agenda.
The Trump administration has floated tariff terms for 24 countries, including the EU bloc, and is aiming for “90 deals in 90 days,” according to White House trade advisor Peter Navarro. So far, framework deals have been announced with the UK and Vietnam, while talks with others are ongoing.
