EU’s Strategic Maneuver: Delay, Not Disarm
This isn’t surrender—it’s strategy. The EU’s member states had already voted on Tuesday to greenlight the proposed tariffs, which were set to take effect April 15. These measures were retaliation for U.S. steel and aluminum duties that Brussels argues have unfairly impacted European industries.
Von der Leyen insisted the EU remains committed to “constructive negotiations” aimed at achieving “frictionless and mutually beneficial trade.” In diplomatic terms, it’s an olive branch—but one held firmly, not lightly.
Global Implications and a Hard Line on China
The tariff tug-of-war between Washington and Brussels is unfolding against a broader global trade recalibration. While the EU is easing up on the U.S., America is tightening the screws on China. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed Wednesday that China will face a punishing 145% tariff rate—no grace period offered.
According to Bessent, Trump’s aggressive trade posture is finally bearing fruit. “More than 75 countries have approached us for trade talks since last week,” he said, highlighting pending negotiations with Vietnam, Japan, South Korea, and India. “It took great courage from him to stay the course until this moment.”
