The European Union has paused planned retaliatory tariffs worth 93 billion euros ($108 billion) on U.S. imports, despite objections from key member states. The suspension, announced via emergency procedure, delays measures originally set to take effect August 7 while Brussels and Washington negotiate further trade terms.
EU Trade Spokesperson Olof Gill confirmed the six-month pause, stating the bloc retains the right to reinstate tariffs if commitments under last month's provisional deal are unmet. The agreement maintains U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs at 50% but pledges future reductions and a transition to quota systems.
Criticism has mounted from France and Germany, with German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil calling the EU's negotiating stance "weak." Former EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell condemned the deal as economically harmful and politically submissive, telling EUobserver: "It shows Europe can hardly be considered a strategically autonomous actor."
Analysts note unresolved tensions, particularly regarding unfeasible commitments like $750 billion in U.S. natural gas purchases. The suspension allows Brussels negotiating flexibility but leaves transatlantic trade dynamics uncertain as both sides prepare for prolonged talks.
