She mentioned that Europe would evaluate the tariffs and expected additional actions from the White House in the near future. Since his inauguration on January 20, Trump has frequently reconsidered implementing tariffs on both allies and adversaries of the United States.
“We are signing today,” Trump declared regarding the protectionist tariffs. “They will take effect on April 2, with collections starting on April 3.”
Although von der Leyen’s tone was cautious, it was clear that the EU is ready to respond.
“The EU will persist in pursuing negotiated resolutions while protecting its economic interests,” she stated. “As a formidable trading partner and a unified community of 27 Member States, we will collectively safeguard our workers, businesses, and consumers throughout the European Union.”
The potential tariffs, if enacted, are expected to have global repercussions. In 2024, the United States imported $214 billion in passenger vehicles, including from non-European allies like Japan, Mexico, and South Korea.
