The European Union has strongly condemned US President Donald Trump’s newly announced tariffs, vowing a firm and coordinated response to protect its economy.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen criticized the sweeping tariffs as a major threat to global economic stability. 

"The consequences will be dire for millions of people around the world," she stated. Emphasizing Europe's unity, she declared, "If you take on one of us, you take on all of us. Our unity is our strength."

Von der Leyen warned that the tariffs would hit both businesses and consumers hard, with the most vulnerable feeling the impact first. 

"The cost of doing business with the United States will drastically increase. Consumers will feel the effects immediately, and all businesses, big and small, will suffer from day one," she said.

The EU is already preparing a set of countermeasures, starting with a response to US steel tariffs, with further actions on the table if diplomatic negotiations fail. 

"We are finalizing our first package of measures and will introduce additional steps if necessary," von der Leyen affirmed.

Economists caution that Trump’s tariffs could spark a wave of global protectionism, disrupting supply chains and straining transatlantic trade relations. 

The EU, however, remains committed to defending fair and rules-based trade. 

"Europe stands together—for business, for citizens, and for all those who believe in open markets," von der Leyen reaffirmed.

As tensions escalate, European leaders are rallying behind a unified strategy to counter the economic fallout of the US tariffs.

Source: Agencies 

BDST: 1010 HRS, APR 03, 2025
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