Von der Leyen Declares EU Ready for Trump Trade Deal, Keeps Retaliation Options Open

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced Friday that the European Union stands prepared to negotiate a comprehensive trade agreement with the United States under President Donald Trump’s administration. Speaking to reporters after briefing EU leaders at a Brussels summit, von der Leyen emphasized the bloc’s dual approach of diplomatic engagement while maintaining defensive capabilities.
The announcement comes as Trump has issued an ultimatum threatening 50% tariffs on all European goods starting July 9th unless both sides reach a mutually acceptable agreement. Currently, most EU exports to America face a 10% baseline tariff, with automobiles and automotive components subject to 25% levies, and steel plus aluminum products hit with 50% duties.
Von der Leyen revealed that European officials are currently analyzing the latest American negotiating document received Thursday. She stressed that while the EU genuinely seeks a deal, European interests will be protected regardless of the outcome. The Commission president made clear that all strategic options remain available to defend European economic sovereignty.
During the summit discussions, von der Leyen also proposed reimagining the World Trade Organization’s structure amid growing concerns about global trade system deterioration. She highlighted potential collaboration opportunities with the Asia Pacific CPTPP bloc, which includes the United Kingdom, as a foundation for demonstrating that multilateral free trade remains viable when built on established rules-based frameworks.