The European Union is increasingly considering introducing trade restrictions against the United States in response to Donald Trump's threats to impose tariffs on European goods over the Greenland issue. According to the Financial Times, Brussels previously discussed a counter-tariff package worth €93 billion but has not yet implemented it, aiming to maintain stable relations with the US.
The possibility of such tariffs is seen as the most serious crisis in transatlantic relations in decades. European leaders are seeking a compromise, including at the Davos forum, to avoid a rift in NATO. Experts note that the current tensions echo the confrontations between Trump and the EU during his previous term, and a compromise is expected again this time.
British Prime Minister and EU leaders condemned the possibility of US tariffs being applied to NATO allies, calling these steps unacceptable. Intensive diplomatic talks are underway to prevent escalation.
Regarding US-Ukraine cooperation, Ukraine’s President has announced plans to sign a free trade agreement with the US and an $800 billion investment agreement. However, experts remain skeptical about such a large amount and emphasize that most pledged aid exists mainly on paper.
The key issue is how a potential Ukraine-US free trade deal would affect Ukraine’s path toward EU accession. On joining the EU, Ukraine will have to follow the bloc’s single trade policy, rendering existing bilateral agreements void. Signing a deal with the US will require coordination with the European Union to avoid risks to the EU accession negotiations.
In summary, new transatlantic trade disputes may present challenges not only for the EU and the US but also for Ukraine, which seeks to balance the interests of both partners.
