The European Union is considering a strategic move in the event of a confrontation with the United States related to the potential imposition of export restrictions to the United States
According to a reputable agency Bloomberg, citing high-ranking officials, discussions are already underway in Brussels regarding a possible scenario of response in case trade negotiations with Washington fail. This indicates a significant level of tension and readiness to employ various tools in the fight to protect European interests. Sources report that the European Union is contemplating introducing restrictions on the export of certain goods to the US as one of its key tactical measures. These measures would be applied only if the negotiation process between the parties does not yield the expected results and relations remain in a "frozen" state of confrontation. Brussels believes that such a step could serve as leverage against the American side and encourage more constructive dialogue. At the same time, Bloomberg sources emphasize that the EU's priority is a comprehensive approach, and export restrictions are just one of several possible instruments in their arsenal. In addition to implementing trade restrictions, Europe is also considering the introduction of new tariff lists and limitations on the participation of American companies in public procurement within the European Union. This allows Brussels to respond more flexibly to the situation and use various impact levers depending on the nature and development of the conflict. A more detailed list of possible measures is currently not disclosed. The EU states that these are conceptual options, and the final choice of specific tactics will depend on the outcomes of the negotiation process, as well as the dynamics of the trade and political situation. However, this information indicates that Brussels is actively preparing for the worst scenarios and aims to prevent undesirable consequences in case diplomatic efforts to resolve trade disputes fail. Overall, the EU's open intention to deploy retaliatory measures in response to a potential escalation of trade conflicts with the US signals that Brussels is not willing to remain indifferent in a situation that could significantly impact the European economy and the external political balance of power. This once again underscores the value of Europe's strategic autonomy in trade and international relations, while also demonstrating that tension levels in global trade continue to rise, and corresponding scenario developments are increasingly approaching reality.