Pressure is mounting on European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen from within the European Parliament to adopt a more assertive response to recent tariff threats from US President Donald Trump.
Bernd Lange, Chair of the European Parliament’s Committee on International Trade, voiced strong criticism of Trump’s recent communication, describing it as unacceptable. Lange urged the EU to immediately enact pre-approved countermeasures in response to US-imposed steel tariffs. These measures include tariffs on US goods such as motorcycles, jeans and peanut butter, previously adopted by Europe but temporarily suspended due to ongoing trade negotiations.
Following Trump’s letter, in which he threatened tariffs of 30% from August 1st, Lange advocates against further delays in implementing the counter-measures. He also called for the EU to prepare additional actions if agreement is not reached by the stated deadline. According to Lange, the EU should swiftly advance work on a further tariff package valued at over €90 billion.
The call for a firmer stance aligns with sentiments expressed by other Members of the European Parliament following the public release of Trump’s correspondence. These voices are pushing for a demonstrably stronger reaction to the escalating trade restrictions imposed by the United States.