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1h ago

France and Germany Seek Joint EU Strategy as Calls Mount to Use Anti‑Coercion Instrument Against Trump Tariffs

Paris urges activation of a never‑used EU trade defense that would take months to implement.

Often referred to as a 'bazooka' or 'nuclear' option, the EU's 'anti-coercion instrument' is intended to deter economic coercion against any of the EU's 27 member states
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Overview

  • German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the two capitals will align their approach before this week’s European Council meeting.
  • Merz signaled deescalation efforts, including a planned attempt to meet President Trump in Davos on Wednesday.
  • President Trump threatened levies of up to 25% on Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and Norway over a Greenland demand.
  • The EU’s anti‑coercion instrument permits import and export restrictions and curbs on U.S. firms’ access to public procurement.
  • Any activation would require an investigation by the European Commission and a qualified majority of member states, with measures months away and potential focus on U.S. tech and services.