European Union (EU) policy consultant Johann Weick has condemned U.S. tariffs as harmful to consumers, highlighting that President Donald Trump's approach is a "bullying" tactic to exploit the EU's limited options and weaken the bloc, as he urged vigilance against these tactics.
Weick made the remarks following the EU member states' decision on Wednesday to approve the bloc's first package of retaliatory measures against Trump's tariffs.
According to media outlets Euractiv and Politico, 26 of the bloc's 27 member states voted in favor during Wednesday's session, signaling overwhelming support for fighting back against Trump's tariff measures.
Weick said the initial retaliatory measures of the EU are a direct counterattack against the tariffs, and Europe will remain increasingly vigilant regarding the true intentions of the U.S. in the future.
"Trump is really bullying the European Union because he knows very well that the European union does not have much of an alternative. And they would like, I will not say crush, but they would like to see a weaker European Union and European Union better pays attention," said Weick.
He stressed that tariff decisions made by the Trump administration are unpopular within the U.S., as they are expected to lead to significant price increases, primarily affecting American consumers.
Furthermore, these policies will disrupt the world economy, and countries across the globe should maintain a firm stance in response to the situation.
"Does Donald Trump understand that if he slaps tariffs that the importers, the wholesalers, the retailers are passing the increased price because it's a tax. To the consumer It will cost and will harm the consumer in the U.S. but also around the world," said the analyst.
Some analysts also pointed out that the retaliatory measures indicated a further deepening of the rift in transatlantic relations under the pressure of U.S. tariffs.
EU analyst criticizes Trump's tariff "bullying" tactics, urges vigilance
