The European Union has swiftly imposed retaliatory tariffs on US industrial and agricultural products in response to Washington’s decision to raise duties on all steel and aluminium imports to 25%. These measures, affecting goods worth approximately €26 billion, put further strain on already tense transatlantic relations.
The world’s largest trading bloc had anticipated the US tariffs and prepared in advance, yet the move still escalates tensions. Just last month, Washington warned Europe that it would need to take greater responsibility for its own security in the future.
The EU’s countermeasures extend beyond steel and aluminium to include textiles, home appliances, and agricultural goods. Products such as motorcycles, bourbon, peanut butter, and jeans—previously targeted during Donald Trump’s first term—will once again face increased tariffs.
Photo: EU