The European Commission has responded to Donald Trump's new threat to impose 25% tariffs on cars and trucks from the European Union. Brussels rejects the US president's reproach and maintains that it is fulfilling its commitments in accordance with usual legislative procedures.
“The EU is implementing its Joint Statement commitments in accordance with standard legislative practice, keeping the US Administration fully informed throughout the process,” a European Commission spokesperson said.
Brussels says it complies with the agreement and asks for clarity from the US
The community response comes after Trump accused the European Union of not complying "in its entirety" with the trade agreement reached with Washington and announced that next week he will raise tariffs on European cars and trucks to 25%.
From Brussels, the message is twofold. On the one hand, the Commission defends that the EU is fulfilling its commitments. On the other, it lets slip that it also expects clarifications on what corresponds to the United States.
“We maintain close contact with our counterparts, even as we seek clarity on US commitments,” adds the EU spokesperson.
The EU warns that it will protect its interests
The most relevant part of the response is in the final warning. Brussels avoids raising the tone head-on, but makes it clear that it does not rule out reacting if Washington breaks the agreed framework.
“We remain fully committed to a predictable and mutually beneficial transatlantic relationship. If the United States takes measures incompatible with the Joint Declaration, we will keep our options open to protect the EU's interests,” says the European Commission.
The message represents a direct diplomatic warning: the EU does not consider the commercial relationship with the United States broken, but it will not accept a unilateral increase in tariffs against one of its most important industrial sectors without a response.
The European automobile, at the center of the tension
The threat from Trump hits the European automotive sector directly. The US president has assured that cars and trucks manufactured in plants in the United States would not be affected by the new tariff, a form of pressure to force more industrial production within the country.
For Brussels, the risk is twofold: economic and political. A 25% tariff would make European vehicles exported to the US market more expensive and would open a new phase of trade tension between two allies who, at the same time, are trying to cooperate in strategic areas such as critical minerals, technology, and defense.
A new test for the transatlantic relationship
The Commission tries to maintain an institutional tone, but the phrase "we will keep our options open" clearly marks the territory. Brussels wants to avoid an immediate escalation, although it is preparing room for response if Trump turns the threat into a formal decision.
The relationship between the EU and the United States thus enters a new zone of friction. The White House accuses Brussels of breaching the agreement. The Commission responds that it is following the normal legislative procedure, keeps Washington informed, and also expects clarity on US commitments.