A senior figure within Germany’s Social Democratic Party (SPD) has expressed reservations regarding the recently reached agreement in the trade dispute between the European Union and the United States. Speaking to RTL and n-tv television networks, SPD General Secretary Tim Klüssendorf stated he was “not satisfied” with the outcome.
Klüssendorf emphasized that the agreement, particularly concerning tariffs on steel and aluminum, represents “certainly only the first step” and necessitates further negotiations to ensure European interests are adequately protected. While acknowledging that both the EU and the US made concessions during the process, he suggested that US President Donald Trump did not achieve all of his initial objectives.
The SPD politician voiced concerns about the ongoing divergence in transatlantic economic policies, suggesting that such divisions ultimately benefit neither side. He underscored the importance of a unified European approach combined with renewed dialogue with the United States to foster a shared understanding – one that prioritizes reduced trade barriers and mutual economic benefit. Klüssendorf believes that increased collaboration and a consolidated European stance will ultimately lead to positive outcomes for both regions.