The EC says it is ready to defend Brussels' interests when engaging with Trump
The European Commission hopes for trade cooperation with the administration of US President-elect Donald Trump but is ready to defend the interests of the European Union, EC spokesman Olof Gill said on January 17.
"If necessary, we will defend our interests, the interests of our companies and EU member states," he said at a briefing, the recording of which was published on the EC website.
According to Gill, the European Commission is ready for any development, but initially aims at "constructive and positive" interaction with the Trump administration.
Earlier, on December 20, 2024, Trump threatened the EU with increased import duties if the association does not increase purchases of American energy resources. In November, he also promised Europe duties of 10% on European goods.
Economist Mikhail Belyaev, speaking to Izvestia, expressed the opinion that such measures may radically affect the global economy, slowing down its development. According to the expert, prices in the United States will also rise as a result.