Overview

• The four-page framework finalized last week sets a 15% ceiling on most U.S. tariffs for EU goods, with reductions on European cars, caps on pharmaceuticals and semiconductors, and a full exemption for aircraft exports.
• Von der Leyen frames the arrangement as prioritizing stability over escalation and argues a clash would have rewarded Russia and China, while stressing EU food, health and digital rules remain intact.
• Officials say the agreement was struck with President Trump in Scotland last month and that both sides have begun steps to formalize it.
• Critics including former WTO chief Pascal Lamy and former EU trade officials warn the accord undermines WTO non‑discrimination principles and risks damaging the EU’s credibility on rules-based trade.
• Key items remain unresolved, with EU officials still seeking cuts on wine and spirits and suggesting possible relief on steel and aluminum.