Von der Leyen: EU will defend against US tariffs

April 01, 2025 / 9:01 PM

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission

Sharjah 24 - WAM: Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, warned that "all options are on the table" in response to the United States' potential tariffs. While the European Union seeks to avoid economic conflict, she emphasised its "capacity to respond."

EU open to negotiations but ready to act

Speaking during a European Parliament session, von der Leyen stated that the EU is open to negotiations with the United States but would act "from a position of strength," given its economic power.

Europe's position on the US tariff threat

Von der Leyen clarified that Europe did not initiate the economic conflict, calling US tariffs "wrong" and asserting that the EU would protect its economy. "We have the capacity to respond. Together, we will always defend Europe," she said.

Risks of tariffs: Inflation and job losses

Von der Leyen warned that tariffs would likely fuel inflation and risk job losses, creating what she described as a “bureaucratic monster.” She stressed that the EU will respond with a "calibrated response" to any tariff announcements from the US.

Protecting the EU's open single market

Highlighting the value of the EU's Single Market, von der Leyen underscored its importance to both the United States and the world. The EU has trade agreements with 76 countries, positioning its Single Market as a "safe haven" in a turbulent global economy.