European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized on Tuesday that although "Europe did not start this confrontation," the union was ready to take strong measures against the US levies.
"We do not necessarily want to retaliate. But if it is necessary, we have a strong plan to retaliate and we will use it," Von der Leyen stated at the European Parliament Plenary meeting in Strasbourg one day before US President Donald Trump's worldwide reciprocal tariffs become effective.
"Our objective is a negotiated solution. But of course, if need be, we will protect our interests, our people, and our companies," she noted while stating that tariffs would only increase inflation, contrary to the bloc's intended goals.
