German Chancellor Friedrich Merz does not believe that the adoption of countermeasures by the European Union against US tariffs is the right move at this stage. This was stated by a German government spokesman, quoted by Reuters, BTA reports.
“He therefore calls for using the time until the end of July for negotiations“, the spokesman said, adding that during this period we must also prepare for possible actions after the deadline, which expires on August 1.
Brussels is discussing the introduction of countermeasures if a deal with the US is not reached by that date. Among the options is the activation of the so-called counter-coercion instrument, which allows the EU to take retaliatory measures against countries that exert economic pressure on the union.
The prospects for easing or eliminating US tariffs appear limited. The US currently imposes 50% tariffs on steel and aluminium and 25% on cars and car parts.
France has consistently supported activating the counter-coercion instrument, but some member states have opposed such a move, calling it too extreme.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said last week that the instrument was intended for emergency situations, adding: “We are not there yet.“
For the measure to be implemented, the Commission must obtain the approval of at least 15 member states representing at least 65% of the EU population. However, support for such a step within the union is growing, according to European diplomats.