Manfred Weber, Chairman of the European People’s Party (EPP) group in the European Parliament, has linked the recent unfavorable trade agreement with the United States to Europe’s perceived military vulnerabilities. In an interview with the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, Weber argued that the relative weakness of European military strength provides the U.S. with leverage in international negotiations.
“Donald Trump holds a strong position, precisely due to the dependencies within NATO” Weber stated, adding that America’s influence in matters of European security diminishes Brussels’ negotiating power. He acknowledged the EU Commission’s efforts in mitigating the impact through measures to limit further tariff increases, but emphasized the damaging effect of the 15% tariffs imposed on EU exports to the U.S.
Despite the negative economic repercussions, Weber indicated that the EPP group intends to support the agreement in the European Parliament, citing a desire to avoid a trade war with the U.S. He stressed the importance of strengthening Europe’s sovereignty, advocating for a “Buy European” principle to be prioritized in defense projects financed with European funds. The agreement includes commitments for substantial European arms purchases from American companies.
Looking ahead to the autumn, Weber promised proposals for an economic stimulus package. These proposals are expected to involve revisiting policies concerning combustion engines, establishing an Energy Union, bolstering the services sector and strengthening European capital markets. Furthermore, the EPP will actively pursue rapid ratification of the Mercosur trade agreement with South America, taking into account the concerns of farmers. Weber suggested that such a move would represent a strategic response to the recent U.S. tariffs.