Thu Feb 27 16:15:37 UTC 2025: ## EU Rejects Trump’s Accusations, Threatens Retaliation Against US Tariffs

**Brussels, February 27, 2025** – The European Union (EU) vehemently rejected US President Donald Trump’s claim that the EU was designed to harm the United States, vowing strong countermeasures if his threatened 25% tariff on all EU products materializes. The escalating trade dispute deepens the already strained transatlantic relationship, further aggravated by Trump’s prior threats to withdraw security guarantees for European allies.

Trump’s assertion that the EU’s purpose was to “screw the United States” sparked immediate backlash. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, whose country currently holds the EU presidency, refuted the claim via X, stating the EU’s formation aimed to promote peace, respect, fair trade, and transatlantic friendship. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez echoed the sentiment, declaring the EU’s readiness to defend its economic sovereignty against unjustified tariffs.

The EU has made it clear that any tariff announcement will trigger immediate retaliatory measures targeting iconic American industries such as bourbon, jeans, and motorcycles. European Commission trade spokesman Olof Gill emphasized the EU’s commitment to a firm and immediate response to any unjustified trade barriers, protecting both consumers and businesses.

While Trump suggested the US could withstand retaliation due to its economic strength, Gill countered that the EU is the world’s largest free market, beneficial to the US through increased trade and reduced costs for American exporters. The EU estimates the bilateral trade volume at approximately $1.5 trillion, representing about 30% of global trade. Although the EU enjoys a significant goods surplus, it points out that this is partly offset by a US surplus in services. The EU insists on the necessity of avoiding a trade war and calls for collaborative efforts to preserve the mutual economic benefits for both sides.

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