European Lawmakers Slam Trade Deal with Trump, Calling it a Blow to Local Industries
On July 28, 2025, political factions within the European Parliament criticized the trade agreement finalized the previous day between European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and U.S. President Donald Trump. Lawmakers expressed concerns that the deal imposes significant challenges to local industries and deviates from World Trade Organization (WTO) principles, reports 24brussels.
Jörgen Warborn, trade spokesperson for the European People’s Party, stated, “Imposing a base tariff of 15% is a flagrant violation of World Trade Organization principles and a severe blow to Europe’s industrial competitiveness.” He emphasized the necessity of a rules-based trading system amidst rising geopolitical tensions, urging the EU to maintain actions that reinforce this system.
Brando Benifei, representing the Socialists and Democrats, claimed the deal established less favorable terms than those previously negotiated with the United Kingdom post-Brexit. Meanwhile, Valerie Hayer, president of the Renew Europe liberals, criticized the EU’s position, noting, “The lesson from this deal: we are an economic giant but a political dwarf,” highlighting the impending tariffs on European products exported to the U.S.
Greens co-president Bas Eickhout labeled the agreement as “delusional,” pointing out the EU’s commitment to purchasing $750 billion worth of energy products from the United States. Critically, Manon Aubry, president of the European Left, described the situation as a disgrace, accusing the EU of capitulation to Trump’s demands.
As the fallout from the trade deal unfolds, reactions from various political factions indicate a growing opposition to the perceived concessions made by the European Commission. The upcoming weeks will likely see intensified discussions on how to mitigate the impact of the new tariffs while preserving the competitive edge of European industries.
