EU Responds Calmly to Trump's Threats, Advocating Patience and Pragmatism
The European Union (EU) has approached the latest barrage of criticisms from Donald Trump with a sense of calm and caution. The newly installed U.S. administration has faced scrutiny over its regulatory practices and trade balance with Europe, prompting a response from European officials who are prioritizing a pragmatic relationship.
On Thursday, Trump accused the EU of treating the United States unfairly, echoing previous threats to impose tariffs on European goods. Such actions could potentially spark a trade war, raising concerns about rising inflation in the U.S. and market instability. A diplomatic source emphasized the importance of maintaining a level-headed approach and waiting for concrete actions rather than reacting to inflammatory rhetoric.
The European Commission has been preparing for various scenarios in light of Trump's return to power, recalling the trade measures previously enacted during his first term, including tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from Europe. EU officials are ready to respond firmly if the situation escalates, although they remain hopeful that a trade conflict can be avoided and agreements can be reached.
In Brussels, officials stress the importance of unity and caution against falling for provocations. They believe that the transatlantic relationship remains essential for both the EU and the U.S. However, the EU leadership, led by President Ursula von der Leyen, has not yet managed to secure a meeting with Trump's inner circle or arrange a visit to Washington to address these issues, causing concern among some EU sectors.
Observers note that other leaders are positioning themselves to influence Trump's administration, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, both of whom have been vocal supporters of Trump's policies. French President Emmanuel Macron is also making efforts to cultivate a favorable relationship with the new U.S. administration.
Brussels is wary of allowing issues to be addressed solely through bilateral channels, emphasizing the need for a coordinated and balanced EU response. The European Commission is currently preparing contingency plans to address potential U.S. measures against European goods. While specific strategies have not been disclosed, officials are considering various preventive measures, including increasing energy agreements with the U.S. and boosting liquefied natural gas imports.
During Trump's first term, the EU responded to U.S. tariffs by imposing its own tariffs on American products that garnered significant support for Trump, such as Harley-Davidson motorcycles and bourbon. Officials are prepared to take similar retaliatory actions if necessary, although they hope to avoid such a scenario.
The EU is also exploring opportunities in defense cooperation with the U.S., though this may conflict with its goal of achieving strategic autonomy. Trump has reiterated demands for NATO allies to increase their defense spending to 5% of GDP, a target that even the U.S. has not met, currently standing at 3.38%.
Within NATO, member states are taking a cautious approach to Trump's renewed threats, awaiting clarity on his administration's positions. The upcoming meeting of defense ministers on February 13 will serve as a crucial indicator of U.S. priorities within the alliance.
