Von der Leyen vows to defend EU interests over Trump’s tariffs

Sarhan Basem
Credit: Reuters

Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that the European Union would be prepared for a tough bargaining session with the US. She stressed that talks would have been done in EU defence and not just as an act of sentiment.

A lot is at stake on both sides,

Von der Leyen told a conference of EU ambassadors.

There are jobs, businesses, industries here and in the United States that rely on the transatlantic partnership,

Ursula von der Leyen said in Brussels. The Commission president stated Europe will be tough in its interactions with Washington.

How is von der Leyen preparing for tough talks?

Our priority is now to work on the many areas where the interests converge,

she expressed, pointing to crucial supply chains and evolving technologies.

We will be ready for tough negotiations where needed and to find solutions where possible, to work out any grievances and to set the foundations for a stronger partnership,

von der Leyen also said.

We will be open and pragmatic in how to achieve that. But we will make it equally clear that we will always protect our own interests.

She further said the European Union must recognise the facts of global politics.

The view of a world trending towards ever-more-cooperation and hyper-globalisation has become outdated,”

she stated.

Europe must deal with the world as we find it.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen made a series of comments about how the EU might respond to tariffs by the U.S. president, specifically to actions by President Donald Trump. 

In response to questions during a news conference following an informal retreat by EU leaders on February 3, 2025, von der Leyen emphasised that the European Union stands ready to take strong measures if the United States places tariffs on goods coming from Europe. She declared that the EU would stand united and determined in its economic response to any such measures from the U.S.

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Brussels Morning is a daily online newspaper based in Belgium. BM publishes unique and independent coverage on international and European affairs. With a Europe-wide perspective, BM covers policies and politics of the EU, significant Member State developments, and looks at the international agenda with a European perspective.
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Sarhan Basem is Brussels Morning's Senior Correspondent to the European Parliament. With a Bachelor's degree in English Literature, Sarhan brings a unique blend of linguistic finesse and analytical prowess to his reporting. Specializing in foreign affairs, human rights, civil liberties, and security issues, he delves deep into the intricacies of global politics to provide insightful commentary and in-depth coverage. Beyond the world of journalism, Sarhan is an avid traveler, exploring new cultures and cuisines, and enjoys unwinding with a good book or indulging in outdoor adventures whenever possible.
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