EU and US Push for Trade Deal as Trump and von der Leyen Hold Talks

The European Union is hopeful about reaching a trade agreement with the United States as President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen held talks on Sunday. With a deadline of July 9 approaching, both sides are working to avoid steep tariffs that could hurt the world’s biggest trade partnership.

The EU, representing its 27 countries, is aiming to secure a deal to counter Trump’s proposed 17% tariffs on European goods, including food and agricultural products. Von der Leyen stressed the importance of a fair, rules-based trade agreement, but admitted that a full, detailed deal is unlikely given the tight timeline.

The EU’s best bet seems to be a basic agreement that sketches out the big picture without getting into too many specifics.

• EU, US Race Against Deadline to Avoid Tariff War as Trump, von der Leyen Meet
• Trump–von der Leyen Talks Signal Hope for EU-US Trade Deal Before July 9
• EU Pushes for Trade Pact as Trump Threatens 17% Tariffs on European Goods

Anthony Gardner, a former U.S. Ambassador to the EU, said it’s no surprise that von der Leyen isn’t aiming for a complete deal right now, given the time crunch. The EU’s trade team is ready to act quickly. Posts on X suggest that people are feeling optimistic, with EU spokesman Olof Gill calling the talks the “start of the final stretch” for a preliminary deal.

If no agreement is reached, a trade war could break out, with the EU ready to hit back with its own tariffs. Experts warn that this could raise prices and hurt businesses and consumers in both the EU and the US.

Also Read: Russian Transport Minister Dies by Suicide Hours After Putin Dismissal

Von der Leyen has been proactive, building on positive conversations with Donald Trump, including a call in May where they agreed to aim for a resolution by July 9. As the deadline nears, the EU is focused on protecting its economic relationship with the US while preparing for any challenges ahead.