The European Parliament has strongly condemned the latest trade measures imposed by the United States, labeling them as unjustified and damaging to global economic stability. Bernd Lange, Chairman of the European Parliament’s International Trade Committee, sharply criticized the 20% tariff announced by US President Donald Trump, calling it an act of economic aggression that will ultimately harm American consumers the most.
Lange described the move as “Inflation Day” rather than the “Liberation Day” Trump declared, warning that these tariffs will lead to higher consumer prices, manufacturing inefficiencies, and increased economic uncertainty. “These unjustified, illegal, and disproportionate measures can only lead to further tariff escalation and a downward economic spiral,” he stated.
In response, the EU has vowed to take swift and measured countermeasures. Lange emphasized that any retaliatory actions by the EU will be legal, proportionate, and decisive. He reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to defending its sovereignty and democratic principles, dismissing any notion of bending to US pressure.
“The countries affected by these tariffs must stand together and send a united message to the US: this tariff madness must end,” Lange asserted. While he expressed hope that the US administration would be willing to engage in dialogue, he remained skeptical about its commitment to genuine negotiations.
The US government has argued that the EU imposes a 39% tax on US imports, prompting Trump’s 20% tariff on European goods, further escalating tensions. A US Trade Representative report cites various EU regulations—including sanitary, environmental, and digital policies—as barriers to American trade.
Lange insists that European legislation is non-negotiable but advocates for diplomatic engagement to resolve the trade dispute. He also suggested that increased European investment in the US could serve as a potential negotiating point.
Despite the tensions, Lange reaffirmed that the EU remains open to finding a resolution. “The EU’s door will always remain open to negotiations,” he said, making it clear that Europe seeks a constructive path forward while firmly standing its ground against economic coercion.
Meanwhile, Jörgen Warborn, the international trade spokesperson for the European People’s Party, the largest group in the Parliament, remarked that it is difficult to stay composed when an ally behaves aggressively.
“This is undermining a transatlantic alliance that has endured for centuries,” Warborn stated. “We are at a crucial juncture in trade history, and the EU must present a unified response.”
via European Parliament, Politico