The European Union has announced €26 billion in retaliatory trade measures against Donald Trump’s tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, escalating global trade tensions.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen condemned the 25% tariffs imposed on metals entering the U.S., which took effect at 4:00 AM Wednesday, calling them “unjustified trade restrictions.”
“We deeply regret this measure,” she stated, as Brussels confirmed a series of countermeasures set to take effect on April 1.
In response, the EU will impose tariffs on steel and aluminum products, as well as textiles, leather goods, household appliances, plastic, wood, and agricultural products.
“Europe must act to protect consumers and businesses,” von der Leyen added.
While reaffirming the EU’s commitment to negotiations, she warned that further economic strain caused by tariffs is not in anyone’s best interest, especially amid ongoing geopolitical and economic uncertainty.