European Greens’ Chairwoman Franziska Brantner has called for a strong and unified European Union response to the threatened US tariffs on steel and aluminum imports.
“I am convinced that the European Union can only react to Trump’s tariffs with its own strength” Brantner told the Rheinische Post (Wednesday edition). “This requires a strong European Union that can act jointly. We want to prevent a trade war, as it would weaken us all economically. If necessary, we need to be prepared to impose counter-tariffs.” the Green politician emphasized.
Moreover, the European Union needs to strengthen its domestic economy, invest massively in digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence and data centers, Brantner said. “This also means that the European Commission must enforce European law against digital platforms and not be intimidated by Elon Musk or the American Vice President” she added.
“Investing in European security is also crucial, if necessary, with credits – because we want freedom and peace in Europe” Brantner stated. “We should aim to increase the efficiency of a common procurement of military equipment. And if a common arms market within the 27 EU member states is not possible, then we should take the lead in a coalition of the willing, possibly even with the United Kingdom” she continued.