Brussels/Washington – European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has strongly defended the latest trade compromise between the European Union and the United States. In an exclusive article for the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, she stated that the agreement brings “stability and predictability” and prevents an expensive trade war.
The Deal at a Glance
The agreement stipulates that Washington will impose a 15 percent import tariff on the majority of European goods. Von der Leyen described this as a “good, albeit not perfect solution.” The crucial point, she emphasized, is that an escalation involving significantly higher punitive tariffs was avoided.
Background: The U.S. administration under President Donald Trump had repeatedly threatened to impose a 30 percent tariff on EU products if no deal was reached. The measure would have taken effect as early as August 1 – with serious consequences for European manufacturers.
Von der Leyen’s Warning
“Let us imagine for a moment that the two largest economies of the democratic world had failed to reach an agreement,” the Commission President wrote. “A trade war would have been inevitable. The only ones celebrating would be in Moscow and Beijing.”
Von der Leyen stressed that while Europe could have responded with reciprocal tariffs, this would have been a risky scenario. “We would have exposed our workers, consumers, and industry to incalculable damage.”
Critical Voices in Brussels
Not everyone is convinced. Critics speak of an “imbalanced agreement” that grants the United States better conditions. Some lawmakers accuse the EU Commission of giving in too early.
“Trump plays hard – and the EU caves in,” said one diplomat behind closed doors. “This sends a signal to the world that Washington can exert pressure and Brussels ultimately backs down.”
Other observers warn of long-term consequences: under the current tariff structure, American companies could gain a clear competitive edge, while European exporters may struggle to keep their prices competitive.
Political Dimension
For Trump, the deal is a domestic political victory. He can tell his supporters that he has once again delivered on “America First.” In Brussels, meanwhile, the compromise is being presented as a shield protecting jobs and industry.
Both sides are therefore using the agreement to serve their own agendas – Washington as proof of strength, Brussels as a safeguard against escalation. What remains clear, however, is that the conflict between the world’s two largest economies is far from resolved.