Brussels: The European Commission warned that it will not hesitate to take all necessary steps to safeguard the European Union's interests, including the adoption of proportionate countermeasures should the United States proceed with new tariffs on EU exports. According to Kuwait News Agency, EC President Ursula von der Leyen stated in a press release that the EU is aware of the letter sent by US President Donald Trump outlining a revised tariff rate and a new timeline. She expressed concerns that imposing 30 percent tariffs on EU exports could disrupt essential transatlantic supply chains, affecting businesses, consumers, and patients on both sides of the Atlantic. Von der Leyen emphasized the EU's commitment to fair trading practices and noted that few economies worldwide match the European Union's level of openness. She reiterated Brussels' preference for a negotiated solution with Washington, underscoring the EU's dedication to dialogue, stability, and a constructive transatlantic partnership. She also highlighted the EU's readiness to work towards an agreement by August 1, while remaining vigilant regarding any unilateral actions that could impact its economic interests. Von der Leyen concluded by reaffirming the EU's intention to continue strengthening its global partnerships in accordance with the principles of rules-based international trade. The announcement from the European Commission follows US President Donald Trump's declaration of a 30 percent tariff on the EU and Mexico, set to take effect on August 1. Trump cited an imbalance in trade with the EU as a reason for the tariffs in a message on his platform Truth Social.
