EU Leaders Consider Response to Trump's Tariff Threat

European leaders will inform the European Commission on Thursday about their preference for a quick trade deal with the US or a tough response to Donald Trump's tariff threats.

The European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, will update EU leaders during dinner on trade talks with the US before the 9 July deadline.

The commission seeks guidance on how to handle critical talks with the White House as Trump threatens 50% tariffs on all EU goods from 9 July without a deal. Most EU goods already face 10% tariffs, with higher levies on specific products.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed support for a quick trade agreement with the US. Ireland's Prime Minister Micheál Martin emphasized the importance of a deal for job protection.

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez criticized Trump's tariff threat as unfair due to Spain's trade deficit with the US. Diplomats are considering options for negotiations, including a quick deal or retaliation for better terms.

The EU has suspended tariffs on some US goods to allow for further negotiations. The bloc is consulting on retaliatory tariffs on US goods, with a focus on specific sectors.

Belgium's Prime Minister Bart De Wever emphasized the need to avoid tariffs and remain calm during negotiations.

The EU's chief trade negotiator Maroš Šefčovič stressed the impact of tariffs on the European car industry and called for unity in the EU's approach.

According to the source: The Guardian.