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EU Commission president says global partners seek “trusted” alternatives amid Trump’s aggressive tariff policy
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As U.S. President Donald Trump’s renewed trade war disrupts global markets, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen says countries around the world are turning to the European Union as a reliable economic partner.
In an interview with Politico, von der Leyen stated that leaders from nations such as India, Canada, the Philippines, and the UAE have expressed interest in closer cooperation with the EU.
Though she did not name Trump directly, the reference was clear: “In an increasingly unpredictable global environment, countries are aligning themselves to work with us,” she said.
Global Trade Under Pressure
Trump’s latest tariffs, announced on April 2, include a 10% base tax on all imports and an additional 20% levy specifically targeting the European Union. European exports of steel, aluminum, and automobiles face even steeper duties—up to 25%.
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After markets plunged a week later, the White House suspended the higher tariffs for 90 days to allow room for negotiations.
Still, the existing trade barriers remain in place, with Trump signaling potential further action.
According to the World Trade Organization, global goods trade could shrink by 1.5% this year if the tariff war escalates, with North America expected to bear the brunt.
Europe Offers a Steady Hand
Von der Leyen contrasted the volatility in Washington with Europe’s more stable approach. Citing recent Eurobarometer data, she noted that support for EU membership stands at 74%—the highest in four decades.
“That says something,” she remarked. “In the middle of chaos, Europe stands firm, anchored in values, ready to shape what comes next.”
Meanwhile, von der Leyen is ramping up diplomatic outreach. She plans to visit China later this year to meet President Xi Jinping and is pushing forward with long-delayed trade agreements, including a pact with South America’s Mercosur bloc.
As reported by Digi24, the European Commission is betting that global partners will choose predictability and multilateralism over economic brinkmanship. Whether that bet pays off remains to be seen.
