France's Minister of the Economy, Finance, and Industry, Eric Lombard (pictured), expressed strong criticism on Thursday during an interview with France Inter over the escalating trade tensions between the US and the European Union.
He condemned the latest US tariffs on European automakers as a damaging and counterproductive move, warning that such measures would harm both economies. Lombard stressed that cooperation, not confrontation, is the only way to resolve trade disputes. "Very bad news and an uncooperative act," he stressed.
The minister confirmed that the EU is preparing retaliatory tariffs on US goods, with the European Commission finalizing a targeted list. However, he expressed hope that both sides would soon recognize the futility of a prolonged trade war. Lombard framed the situation as a choice between passive acceptance, which would encourage further aggression, or a measured response to defend European interests.
