04.02.2025 11:34
Europe, the traditional ally of the United States, has threatened the U.S., which has initiated a trade war. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that a strong response would be given if the U.S. imposes new tariffs on the EU. She also emphasized that the EU needs to increase its defense spending.
The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, announced that a strong response would be given if the U.S. administration under Donald Trump imposes new customs tariffs on the EU.
"WE DO NOT EXPECT A GOOD OUTCOME"
Von der Leyen made statements to the press after the first summit meeting on defense held in Brussels. She noted that the leaders of the 27 EU member countries discussed not only defense but also relations with the U.S., stating, "The EU is ready for a solid and constructive dialogue with the U.S., but we are also aware of potential challenges in relations with the U.S. and we are prepared for that. The EU will respond strongly when unfairly or arbitrarily targeted." Von der Leyen addressed the issue of the Trump administration starting to impose high customs duties on Canada and Mexico, saying, "These tariffs increase business costs, harm workers and consumers. They unnecessarily damage economies and increase inflation. We do not expect a good outcome from this."
FUNDING OPTIONS
Emphasizing that there is a "great urgency" for EU member countries to significantly increase defense spending, von der Leyen stated that they discussed options for increasing flexibility in lending practices, primarily through more public funding, and then by working with the European Investment Bank and national private banks.
JOINT SUMMIT IN ENGLAND IN MAY
Von der Leyen mentioned that they discussed closer cooperation in defense with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who attended the summit as a guest, announcing that a joint defense summit with the EU would be held in England in May. She noted that the proposal for a continent-wide air defense shield project, which was put forward by Poland and Greece some time ago, received significant support from the leaders, stating that such projects would be addressed and that decisions on funding options across Europe would be made later.
MACRON ALSO THREATENED THE U.S. YESTERDAY
Emmanuel Macron pointed out that gaining strategic autonomy for Europe has become more important due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia's attacks on Ukraine, and the new rhetoric of the Donald Trump administration. Macron stated that Trump's remarks about potentially increasing customs duties on the EU have directed Europe towards being "stronger and more united" in defense and the economy. He expressed that "if commercial interests are attacked, Europe will need to ensure that it is respected," emphasizing the need for strategic autonomy for the Union in the field of defense.