Brussels is continuing efforts to reach a negotiated trade agreement with Washington, despite the unexpected threat from the US to impose a 30% tariff on EU exports. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen emphasized the EU's commitment to a mutually beneficial deal but warned that the bloc is prepared to respond with countermeasures if necessary.

The EU has proposed a new list of US goods worth €72 billion that could be targeted by tariffs, in addition to a previously approved €21 billion list currently on hold. The tariff threat, delivered in a letter from US President Donald Trump, surprised EU trade ministers who believed negotiations were nearing completion. EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic expressed disappointment, noting that talks had been progressing for weeks.

Swedish Trade Minister Benjamin Dousa criticized the unpredictability of US actions and urged the EU to adopt a tougher stance. In a show of goodwill, the EU has delayed retaliation again, aiming to avoid a trade war.
 

(This video summary was created using AI. A journalist edited it before publication.)