Concerns are mounting within the German Social Democratic Party (SPD) regarding the approach taken by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in ongoing trade negotiations with the United States. The Seeheimer Circle, a prominent conservative faction within the SPD parliamentary group, has cautioned against allowing the German and broader European economies to suffer as a result of the escalating customs dispute.
Speaking to “Der Spiegel”, Bundestag member Esra Limbacher voiced criticism that President von der Leyen has been “too hesitant” in her dealings with Washington. Limbacher stressed the need for the European Union to either secure a “binding and fair agreement” with the U.S. or demonstrate “significantly greater resolve.
The situation arises from US President Donald Trump’s demands for concessions aimed at reducing the U.S. trade deficit with the European Union. Trump has threatened to impose new tariffs on imports from the EU if a resolution isn’t reached. President von der Leyen has previously tempered expectations for a comprehensive trade agreement, citing the limited timeframe available for negotiations.
Limbacher underscored the need for “clear and credible reciprocal measures” from the United States before any concessions are offered by the Commission. She warned that if such guarantees are not forthcoming, Europe must be prepared to enact “confident trade policy counter-measures”. The priority, she emphasized, must be to avert a scenario where key industries, such as the German steel sector, experience significant adverse effects.