According to EU officials, just a few days ago the European Commission – responsible for the trade policy of the continent – sent a letter to the White House. It contained a list of concessions.
For example, the EC was to propose a purchase of more raw materials in the USA, Thus responding to one of the main demands of President Donald Trump. However, apparently it didn't help much.
Shortly afterwards, Trump surprised with the threat of introducing new duties in the amount of 50 percent. for European goods. He announced that they could come into force in June, i.e. in a few days. He repeated the old allegations that the EU was created to economically use America. What can happen next? “Die Welt” answers the most important questions about the next stage of trade conflict.
How can the EU react if Trump fulfills the threat?
There are several ideas in the committee. Among other things, duties on individual products, such as whiskey and Harley-Davidson motorcycles. It would be a classic EU response and a continuation of the logic of previous trading wars.
She could also focus on universal duties, i.e. fees for everything from America, which would be a reflection of Trump's policy. “Bazooka” remains, the most powerful EU weapon – an attack on large technology companies, the heart of the American economy.
For Brussels, the regulations regarding digitization are a weapon in conflict with Trump, a deterrent agent that goes beyond customs and contingents. For example, the EU could introduce more severe data protection regulations or even digital services tax. Both solutions could hardly hit companies such as Apple or Google.
What were the first reactions in Brussels?
Trump's threat surprised the commission and parliament. MPs called for peace. – We are witnessing the next episode of the commercial policy of President Trump, which mainly harms consumers in the United States themselves – said Daniel Caspary, MEP from the German CDU party.
In his opinion, limiting supply chains or increasing the prices of products for American enterprises will not help the United States economy. “We must calmly continue negotiations and defend our interests,” Caspary added.
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Some also in favor of A definite EU responseif the US president took specific actions. – Trump must realize that the lack of agreement will have serious consequences for the US – said Anna Cavazzini, a deputy of the German Green Party. – Therefore, the EU must keep its remedies and prepare for further, more decisive reactions to the American arbitrary duties.
At what stage are negotiations between Trump and the EU?
For several weeks, the European Commission and the White House have been mentioning at least letters. This is a certain progress, because the conversations were in a rally. The EU Commissioner for Trade Maros Sefcovic traveled several times to the USA for talks, but to no avail.
Olivier Hoslet / PAP
EU Commissioner for Trade Maros Sefcovic in Brussels, Belgium, May 15, 2025.
Only the financial markets were able to make Trump to reserve temporarily. In April, he announced duties in the amount of 20 percent. for products from the EU, but he withdrew from this idea when she exploded the profitability of American bonds, and thus the costs of $ 36 trillion. (over PLN 135 trillion) public debt.
Is Trump to apply 50 % duties real?
This is not clear at all. Trump announced dramatic duties many times, and then changed his mind. This was not only the case with the EU, but also in the case of Mexico and Canada.
Polish Deputy Minister of Development Michał Baranowski underestimated Trump's threats. “The European Union and the United States are negotiating,” he said. Poland currently exercises a rotational presidency in the EU Council and therefore has special political influence.
– the fact that there are some important statements in public space, does not mean that they will be reflected in the actions of the American administration He assessed. He reminded that so far the US and the EU have decided to refrain from mutual duties.
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.
