21.02.2025 09:51
The spokesperson for the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Christophe Lemoine, emphasized that the United States would have a lot to lose if it entered into a trade war with Europe and highlighted the importance of transatlantic economic relations. He also stated that there is an ongoing intense dialogue between the EU and the US regarding Ukraine.
The spokesperson of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Christophe Lemoine, stated that the United States would have a lot to lose if it entered into a trade war with Europe, especially during a time when U.S. President Donald Trump’s rhetoric about imposing new tariffs on the European Union (EU) and some countries has increased.
"THE U.S. HAS A LOT TO LOSE"
Lemoine emphasized the importance of transatlantic economic relations and reacted against protectionist policies during his weekly press conference. Stating, "We are the largest trading partner of the U.S.," Lemoine noted that the U.S. would have a lot to lose if it entered into a trade war with Europe. In response to a journalist's question, "Is the U.S. on the side of Europe or against it regarding Ukraine?" Lemoine replied, "We have a historical relationship with the U.S. and we have an intense dialogue on various cooperation." He mentioned that the new U.S. administration has shown a new attitude not only regarding Ukraine but also concerning the increase of tariffs in trade, but negotiations are ongoing.
"WE ARE READY TO DO OUR PART FOR EUROPEAN SECURITY AND PEACE REGARDING UKRAINE"
Lemoine pointed out that contacts for peace negotiations in Ukraine have increased, emphasizing that this war primarily concerns "Ukraine and Ukrainians," and subsequently European security. Sending the message, "We stand with Ukraine and we are ready to do our part for security and peace in Europe," Lemoine stated that the extraordinary summit on Ukraine held in Paris on February 17 and the video conference held by EU leaders yesterday aimed to strengthen support for Ukraine.
"INCLUDE US AT THE TABLE" MESSAGE
Lemoine stressed that Ukraine should benefit from strong and valid security guarantees, stating that discussions on this matter should continue not only with the U.S. but also with European partners. He noted that sending peacekeeping forces to Ukraine is just one of the deterrent elements to prevent Russia's renewed aggression, but the priority in Ukraine negotiations should be ensuring security guarantees.
"UKRAINE SHOULD BECOME A NATO MEMBER"
Lemoine indicated that these security guarantees are related to equipping and arming the Ukrainian army with new equipment or Ukraine's membership in NATO, stating that security guarantees cannot be reduced solely to sending peacekeeping forces. Donald Trump announced on February 9 that he would impose a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports from Europe soon. He also stated that aluminum and steel coming from Canada and Mexico would be subject to tariffs. The EU Commission announced that they would respond if additional tariffs were applied to EU products.