European leaders have issued stark warnings about the “dire consequences” of newly imposed US tariffs, predicting widespread harm to consumers and the global economy, and signalling a readiness to respond with countermeasures.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen cautioned that the tariffs would “hurt consumers around the world,” and highlighted the “complexity and chaos” being created as all US trading partners face increased trade barriers. She stressed the EU’s unity as its “strength” and affirmed the bloc’s preparedness to deploy “calibrated countermeasures.”
Outgoing German Economy Minister Robert Habeck echoed the call for a unified EU response, emphasising the bloc’s leverage as the world’s largest single market. “Europe’s strength is our strength,” he stated, expressing hope for “a negotiated solution.”
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni labelled the US tariffs “wrong,” pledging to “do everything we can to work towards an agreement with the United States,” to avert a trade war that would “weaken the West in favour of other global players.” She added that Italy would act in its national interest, in consultation with European partners.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson expressed “deep regret” over the US decision, advocating for free trade and warning against “growing trade barriers.” While affirming the government’s readiness to respond and collaborate with the EU to “reverse these developments,” he expressed a desire to “find our way back to the path of trade and cooperation together with the US.”
Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin asserted that tariffs “benefit no one,” deeming them “bad for the world economy” and detrimental to both individuals and businesses. He prioritised the protection of Irish jobs and the economy, pledging to work with companies to navigate the challenges ahead and to negotiate with the US to “limit the damage.” Martin also highlighted the significant contributions of US companies based in Ireland.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, in a social media post, emphasised the need for “really and truly reciprocal tariffs,” stating that “adequate decisions are needed.”
Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo described the tariff decisions as “concerning,” warning that “there are no winners in a trade war.” He predicted that “businesses, consumers, and economic growth suffer,” and affirmed the EU’s readiness to respond and negotiate, with Finland’s full support.
The pan-European Stoxx 600 index fell 1.5% at the start of trading, reaching its lowest level in over two months. Germany’s DAX index dropped almost 2.5% in Frankfurt, while France’s CAC 40 fell 2.2% and Spain’s IBEX 35 lost 1.5%.
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