EU Prepared to Retaliate if US Trade Negotiations Fail, Warns German Finance Minister
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German Finance Minister Christian Lindner has issued a stark warning that the European Union is prepared to take retaliatory measures if negotiations with the United States over a fair trade deal collapse. Speaking at a press conference in Berlin, Lindner emphasized that while the EU prefers a diplomatic resolution, it will not hesitate to defend its economic interests should talks falter. The comments come amid growing tensions between Brussels and Washington over trade practices, particularly concerning subsidies and tariffs. Lindner stressed that the EU seeks 'mutually beneficial terms' but cautioned that failure to secure a balanced agreement would trigger a robust response. 'We are committed to fairness, but we are equally prepared to act if our partners choose confrontation over cooperation,' he stated. Additional reports from Politico highlight that the EU has been drafting contingency measures, including targeted tariffs on key US exports, should negotiations break down. The bloc has reportedly grown frustrated with what it perceives as unilateral US trade policies that disadvantage European industries. Analysts suggest that the EU’s firm stance reflects broader geopolitical shifts, with Europe increasingly willing to assert its economic sovereignty. The outcome of these talks could significantly influence transatlantic trade relations, with potential repercussions for global markets.
