EU says it stands ready to defend interests if US imposes tariffs

ISTANBUL

Amid fears that US President Donald Trump would impose tariffs, the EU Commission chief said on Friday the bloc is prepared to respond decisively to any unfair or arbitrary trade measures.

Speaking at a news conference in Gdansk, Poland, Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the deep economic ties between the EU and the US, citing a trade volume of €1.5 trillion ($1.56 trillion).

"We want to keep the transatlantic partnership strong, not only because of our historic ties, but because it’s smart business," she said, highlighting the importance of industries and jobs on both sides of the Atlantic.

However, she added, the EU will not hesitate to defend itself against discriminatory trade measures. “When it comes to targeted, unfairly (introduced) or arbitrary responses, the European Union will respond firmly,” von der Leyen warned.

Beyond trade, security remains a pressing concern, particularly at the EU’s eastern border, she stressed.

She described the ongoing migrant crisis at Poland’s frontier as a "hybrid threat," accusing Russia and Belarus of using migration as a political weapon. "This is not a question of migration. This is a question of national security," the commission head said.

She said to address the issue, the EU is intensifying cooperation with countries of origin to curb irregular migration. "If you want to come to the European Union, don’t try the smugglers and traffickers. They take your money, you risk your life, and you will be brought back," she cautioned, advocating legal migration pathways and investment in education instead.

Trump has said tariffs against the 27-member bloc would "definitely happen" and be introduced "pretty soon.”