On May 5th, the European Union (EU) announced it was prepared for "all scenarios" after US President Donald Trump threatened to increase tariffs on cars imported from Europe.

Speaking to reporters in Yerevan, Armenia, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen affirmed that the EU remains committed to the trade agreement reached with the US last year, rejecting accusations from Washington that the bloc is not fully complying with its commitments. She stated: “We are committed to common interests, cooperation and trust – but we are also prepared for all scenarios.”

Earlier, Trump announced he might raise tariffs on cars and trucks from the EU from 15% to 25%, accusing Brussels of "breaking its promise." While no specific measures have been announced, the European Commission said it is keeping all options open if the US actually imposes new tariffs. Previously, the European Parliament conditionally ratified the EU-US trade agreement, but according to the bloc's procedures, the final text still needs to be negotiated with member states.

EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic is expected to meet with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on the sidelines of the G7 ministerial meeting in Paris, France, later that day to resolve disagreements. The US side argues that the EU's process is "too slow" and that the proposed amendments could "undermine the agreement."

Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron called on the EU to be ready to activate the Anti-Coercion Instrument (ACI) – a powerful mechanism to counter external geopolitical pressures. He criticized “destabilizing threats” and argued that the EU needs to use the tools already in place for their intended purpose.

The trade agreement signed last year stipulates a 15% tariff ceiling on most EU goods, including cars – lower than the 25% that the US applies to many other partners. The EU says it is in the final stages of implementing its remaining tariff commitments and expects the US to fully comply with its corresponding obligations.

Source: Vietnam.vn