President Trump’s announcement today proposing a 50% tariff on EU imports from June 1st is deeply disappointing.
I had welcomed the decision to pause the imposition of new tariffs until early July, providing a window for continued dialogue between the European Union and the United States in the hope of reaching a negotiated settlement.
I have consistently made clear that tariffs harm everyone — those who impose them, those subjected to them, and, most critically, the businesses and consumers who bear the cost.
The only viable and constructive path forward is a negotiated agreement — one that protects jobs, promotes fair trade, and supports the broader global economy.
The European Union has been engaging in good faith throughout this process. I understand that Commissioner Šefčovič was due to hold further discussions with his U.S. counterpart this afternoon, demonstrating our continued commitment to dialogue.
The scale of tariffs now being suggested would not only raise consumer prices but could cause lasting damage to one of the world’s most important trading relationships. The ripple effects would be felt far beyond Europe and the United States, with consequences for global trade stability.
This is not the direction we need to take.
Now more than ever, sustained negotiation — not escalation — must be the way forward.
