A leading figure within Germany’s Left Party has strongly condemned the recently agreed customs agreement between the European Union and the United States. Ines Schwerdtner, chair of the Left Party, described the deal as “a disaster for Europe” citing concerns over its long-term implications.
Her criticism centers on the continued application of high US tariffs on key European industries, arguing that the agreement fails to secure reciprocal concessions from the American side. Schwerdtner also expressed concerns that the deal undermines the concept of European unity, highlighting what she perceives as the EU’s demonstrated reliance on the United States.
The commitment made by the EU Commission to import weapons and fossil fuels from the US, valued in the hundreds of billions of euros, was labeled as “barely realistic”. Furthermore, Schwerdtner warned that the agreement provides US President Donald Trump with considerable leverage, suggesting he could unilaterally withdraw from the deal if Europe fails to meet the agreed-upon import volumes.
She cautioned against complacency, asserting that the increased purchases of energy and arms from the US will only deepen existing dependencies, factors which contributed to Europe’s weakened negotiating position. Schwerdtner advocated for strategies to reduce Europe’s vulnerability, emphasizing the need for a strengthened internal market, improved wage development across member states and an independent industrial policy.
Criticism was also directed at the German government’s role in the negotiations. Schwerdtner contrasted Germany’s approach, reportedly favoring a swift conclusion, with that of France, which she stated pursued a more assertive negotiating stance and potential counter-measures. She characterized Germany’s actions as paving the way for a perceived capitulation to Washington.