The European Union today resembles a scattered chicken coop. The spectacular judgment of the Supreme Court of the United States surprised last Friday both the European Commission and the governments of the Member States. While the first reactions emphasized the efficient operation of the American rule of law, the threats that influential politicians have now begun to direct across the Atlantic seem downright absurd.
After the US president's legal failure, many Europeans feel they are in a privileged position and are demanding that the European Commission put maximum pressure on Donald Trump. However, in relations with such economic powers as the USA or China Shows of force will bring no benefits to Europe — but they can cause enormous damage.
The judgment regarding customs duties has caused great concern on world markets. The Supreme Court rejected most tariff rates unilaterally set by the president. However, Trump quickly exploited the remaining legal loophole and now imposed 15 percent tariffs on all imports into America.
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Many trading partners, especially China, would be in a much better situation as a result, as the US President has imposed particularly high barriers towards them. Meanwhile, the total tariffs on EU exports for many products would be slightly higher than the level agreed last summer after lengthy negotiations. Brussels then declared to the Americans that it would completely abolish customs duties. Even then, in the Old World, there was no shortage of voices criticizing the unequal agreement.
The French government has always taken a tough stance against Trump. Social Democrats and Greens in Germany and in the European Parliament are now again demanding the use of the “trade bazooka”. This belligerent term covers not only draconian trade penalties, but also… restrictions on American technology giantssuch as Google or Facebook, which could seriously harm the US economy.
According to European supporters of the hard line the negotiated agreement with the US should now be frozen. And in new talks with WashingtonBrussels should “stick out its chest” and “show its teeth,” as Dirk Wiese, a Social Democratic member of the Bundestag, suggested in an interview for POLITICO.
“It takes both diplomatic and psychological sense”
The European Commission should ignore the voices of instigators and instead calmly and rationally analyze what opportunities exist to improve economic exchange between Europe and the US. The European Parliament should approve the customs agreement immediately. Otherwise, the looming spiral of escalation would have disastrous consequences, especially for the German economy.
Donald Trump, President of the USA, and Friedrich Merz, Chancellor of Germany. Washington, June 5, 2025Celal Gunes / Anadolu/ABACAPRESS.COM / PAP
Trump is already under pressure. Neither the American economy nor the public approves of his tariff policy. Financial markets are also putting pressure on the US president. Therefore, there is a good chance that the Republican will respond positively to the constructive strategy of the European Union.
Europeans themselves continue to suffer from high tariffs for goods such as steel or aluminum, which the Supreme Court did not overturn. Too loud threats may make the EU a convenient scapegoat for the American president.
It is all the more good that Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz is going to the USA within a few days. He has good relations with Trump and can do a lot for the European Union. This requires both diplomatic and psychological sensitivity – not threats and shows of force.
I’m Ashley Davis as an editor, I’m committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accuracy in every piece we publish. My work is driven by curiosity, a passion for truth, and a belief that journalism plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse. I strive to tell stories that not only inform but also inspire action and conversation.
