Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

EU Citizens Back Tariffs Amid Rising US Trade Tensions

4/2/2025

42 6

Summary

Story summary

A recent YouGov survey shows that most EU citizens back retaliatory tariffs against the US as trade tensions rise. With growing worries in Germany and France about the economic fallout, European leaders like Ursula von der Leyen are poised to respond decisively, championing fair trade while standing firm against US actions.

History

Historical Context

The current EU support for retaliatory tariffs against the U.S. echoes past trade conflicts, notably the 2018 tariffs on steel and aluminum. Then, the EU responded with tariffs on $3 billion worth of U.S. goods, highlighting ongoing tensions. These disputes often arise from shifting U.S. trade policies, impacting alliances and economic stability, reminiscent of the fallout from the AUKUS pact in 2021.

1 of 2

Story summary

A recent YouGov survey shows that most EU citizens back retaliatory tariffs against the US as trade tensions rise. With growing worries in Germany and France about the economic fallout, European leaders like Ursula von der Leyen are poised to respond decisively, championing fair trade while standing firm against US actions.

1 / 2