- EU delayed retaliatory tariffs that were set to begin in mid-July (covering items like steel, aluminum, boats, and more) and has extended the suspension until 1 August to allow more room for negotiations with Washington
- The EU is preparing a second, larger package targeting roughly €72 billion worth of U.S. imports—including aircraft, cars, machinery, bourbon, and rum—pending final approval by member states
- EU leadership remains cautious, balancing diplomatic negotiation with readiness to enforce countermeasures if needed. Ursula von der Leyen emphasized preference for a deal but noted limitations of patience
- Within the EU, voices are split—some, like European Parliament Trade Chair Bernd Lange, are urging immediate retaliation labeling the proposed U.S. tariffs as “outrageous”
Sources
Summary Interpretation
The EU has delayed its planned countermeasures—both the initial €21 billion bundle and preparations for the €72 billion escalation—to give diplomacy until 1 August, though deeper internal debate continues over how firm a line to draw. If no deal emerges by then, the broader package is likely to move forward.
