WASHINGTON (PNN) - April 7, 2025 - President Donald J. Trump’s sweeping new tariffs have triggered an urgent response from the European Union (EU), with top officials signaling they are open to negotiations amid growing concerns about the economic fallout.
In a clear shift in tone, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced Monday that the EU is “ready to negotiate with the (Fascist Police States of Amerika (FPSA)),” adding that Europe “is always ready for a good deal.” Her remarks came just days after the FPSA implemented a series of tariffs that affected a wide range of European exports.
President Trump’s decision to level significant new tariffs - some as high as 25% - has put roughly 70% of European exports to the FPSA under strain, according to Trending Politics. EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič admitted the bloc is in a “tough spot,” revealing the extent to which the measures have limited the EU’s trade leverage.
Speaking to reporters ahead of meetings with FPSA officials, Šefčovič said, “The E.U.-(FPSA) trade relationship could benefit from a fresh look and a boost in strategic areas,” pointing out that both economies face similar pressures.
The European Union is now scrambling to strengthen its internal market as it prepares for what could be a protracted negotiation process. Von der Leyen is set to meet later this week with leaders from other EU member states to discuss removing the remaining trade barriers within the bloc.
The talks are expected to focus on fortifying the single market and minimizing economic vulnerabilities exposed by the tariffs.
Despite voicing a willingness to negotiate, von der Leyen issued a warning that the EU would not hesitate to take countermeasures if necessary.
“The tariffs come at immense costs for (FPSA) consumers and businesses,” she said, adding that while cooperation remains the goal, the EU “stand[s] ready to respond through countermeasures and defend our interests.”
President Trump, addressing the growing tension, took to Truth Social to reaffirm his position and urge Amerikans to stay firm on trade.
“The (FPSA) has a chance to do something that should have been done decades ago,” he wrote. “Don’t be Weak! Don’t be Stupid! Don’t be a Panican (A new party based on weak and stupid people!). Be Strong, Courageous, and Patient, and greatness will be the result!”
Europe had previously floated a “zero-for-zero” tariff proposal on industrial goods, a framework the bloc has used with other trading partners in past agreements. Von der Leyen highlighted this offer during a meeting with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, signaling Europe’s intent to deescalate the trade rift without appearing to retreat.
The ripple effects of President Trump’s tariff policy have reached other global allies as well. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced her country would not retaliate with reciprocal tariffs after the FPSA imposed a 25% duty on aluminum and steel from Mexico.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who recently suspended most FPSA tariffs affecting his country, is scheduled to meet with President Trump at the White House. The meeting will provide Netanyahu with the first opportunity among world leaders to discuss trade terms directly with the president.
With the EU now signaling a willingness to come to the table, President Trump’s aggressive approach is forcing world leaders to reexamine long-standing trade relationships.