European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen issued a strong warning on Saturday, stating that the European Union is prepared to take necessary steps to defend its interests if the United States proceeds with imposing 30% tariffs on European goods starting August 1.
In a statement, von der Leyen emphasized that the EU remains open to reaching an agreement before the deadline but will not hesitate to act if forced:
“The EU stands ready to continue working toward an agreement by August 1,” she said.
“Few economies in the world match the European Union in openness and adherence to fair trade practices.”
She made clear that the bloc would respond if provoked:
“We will take all necessary steps to protect the EU’s interests, including the adoption of proportionate countermeasures, if necessary,” von der Leyen said, according to Reuters.
Her remarks come in response to President Donald Trump’s announcement of new tariffs on both the EU and Mexico, which he framed as a response to long-standing trade imbalances and national security threats.
