The American leader argues that the introduction of tariffs in the automotive industry is due to Brussels' alleged failure to comply with the provisions of the trade agreement, although he did not indicate specific violations committed by the Europeans.
Read also: Important declaration by Donald Tusk. This is about the SAFE agreement. The Prime Minister is talking about Friday
Brussels: we keep calm
The response from the European Commission came on Monday. EC spokesman Thomas Regnier tried to tone down the mood during the press conference, emphasizing the strength and stability of European trade diplomacy.
“It didn't change anything on our end. Why? Because we are the most reliable partner in the world. When you sign a deal with the EU, you know that's what you'll get [na co się umówiłeś] Regnier assured.
The spokesman added that the Union remains faithful to the standards developed and has been implementing common statements from the very beginning “fully committed to implementing common commitments”. The EU administration believes that Washington is trying to unilaterally change the rules of the game that were established only a year ago.
Protecting interests on both sides of the Atlantic
Although Brussels declares its willingness to dialogue, Thomas Regnier clearly emphasized that the EU will not remain defenseless in the face of possible US protectionism. He informed that The Commission has the right tools to “protect the EU's interests”.
Read also: Maximum fuel prices for Tuesday. This is what drivers will pay
“We remain calm, focusing on enforcing the joint statement in the interests of our companies, our citizens. And this, by the way, on both sides of the Atlantic,” the spokesman added.
These words suggest that a possible tariff war will hit not only European producers, but also American consumers and supply chains, which may be counterproductive to those intended by the White House.
The 2025 pact is in doubt
The sudden change in Washington's course is surprising because the signals coming from the US were optimistic last week. After a meeting with US Finance Minister Scott Bessent, the EU Commissioner for Trade, Marosz Shefczovicz, argued that the Trump administration intends to honor the trade agreement of July 2025.
The agreement in question, in force since August last year, was supposed to bring stability after years of disputes. It introduced, among others: a single customs duty of a maximum of 15%. for most goods, including the automotive sector, which is key to the European economy. If Trump's announcements about a 25% tariff come true, this agreement may become a dead letter, opening a new chapter in the transatlantic trade conflict.
