EU and US Edge Toward Trade Conflict Over New Tariffs
Donald Trump's 25% tariffs on EU steel and aluminum imports prompt threats of retaliation, but Europe's response remains divided.
- US President Donald Trump has imposed a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports, with no exemptions for EU countries starting March 4.
- The EU is preparing countermeasures, including reactivating tariffs on US goods like whiskey, motorcycles, and peanut butter, but no concrete actions have been announced yet.
- EU leaders are divided, with some nations advocating for negotiation while others push for stronger retaliatory measures.
- European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has pledged a 'proportionate and decisive' response but has not provided specifics.
- The tariffs have raised concerns about broader economic impacts, including potential effects on the EU's steel industry and fears of escalating global trade tensions.