Camilla Jessen
Ursula von der Leyen says growing uncertainty around U.S. trade policy under Donald Trump is pushing more countries to seek closer ties with Europe.
Others are reading now
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has highlighted an unexpected benefit of U.S. President Donald Trump’s latest tariff policies: a renewed global interest in trading with the European Union.
In an interview with Die Zeit, published Tuesday and cited by Politico, von der Leyen said that a wave of world leaders are now turning to the EU in search of stability and new trade opportunities.
I am currently in countless discussions with heads of state and government from around the world who want to work together with us on the new order,” she said.
“Everyone is asking for more trade with Europe—and it’s not just about economic ties. It’s also about establishing common rules and predictability.
Global Uncertainty, European Opportunity
Since Trump announced a new round of sweeping tariffs on April 2, uncertainty has shaken transatlantic markets and cast doubt on the future of EU-U.S. trade relations.
In response, the EU has begun diversifying its trade partnerships, exploring deals with other major economies including China, and deepening ties with countries in Asia, Latin America, and Africa.
Von der Leyen sees this moment as a strategic opening for Europe to position itself as a reliable, rule-based partner in global commerce.
“Europe can deliver this,” she added.
Shifting Global Dynamics
Trump’s tariff measures, which target multiple countries and sectors, have disrupted traditional trade alliances.
While intended to bolster U.S. industries, they have also created openings for Brussels to expand its influence, particularly among countries wary of being caught in Washington’s unpredictable economic policies.
Von der Leyen stressed that the EU is ready to use this momentum to “open new markets for our companies” and to build closer relationships with nations that share democratic and economic values.
Europe is awake,” she said. “We must now use this momentum to open new markets for our companies and to establish a closer relationship with many countries that share our interests.
The European Commission has already resumed talks on pending trade agreements and is actively working to finalize deals with a range of partners, from Mercosur to India.
Officials believe that Europe’s commitment to predictable rules and long-term cooperation is becoming increasingly attractive to partners seeking an alternative to Washington’s more confrontational trade approach.