The incoming US president is raising concerns about a potential transatlantic trade conflict just a month before his return to the White House.
Today, EU officials responded to Donald Trump’s recent tariff threat, where he cautioned that dire consequences could follow if the European Union does not significantly increase its purchases of American oil and gas.
On his Truth Social platform, Trump stated: “I told the European Union that they must address their massive trade deficit with the United States by making substantial purchases of our oil and gas. Otherwise, it will be TARIFFS all the way!!!”
During a press briefing in Brussels, Olof Gill, the European Commission’s trade spokesperson, addressed what he termed “frequent comments from the president-elect” regarding EU-US trade relations.
“The EU enjoys a considerable trade surplus in goods with the US, while the US has a notable services surplus in its dealings with the EU. This disparity isn’t always reflected in the types of comments you are referring to,” Gill remarked.
He further highlighted, “We want to communicate clearly, and this has been indicated at the highest levels, including by President von der Leyen, that we are open to discussions with President-elect Trump on how to strengthen our already robust relationship, particularly in the energy sector.”
Over the past three years, Europe has dramatically increased its imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the United States as part of its strategy to diversify energy supplies amid ongoing tensions related to Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
According to EU statistics, the US emerged as the largest supplier of both petroleum and non-pipeline gas in the third quarter of this year, providing just over 15% of oil and nearly 38% of the EU’s LNG imports.
In total gas imports, which include both LNG and pipeline sources, US exports met about 20% of EU demand last year, trailing only behind Norway, which accounted for 30% due to its extensive pipeline connections.
EU representatives did not confirm whether Trump had officially communicated his ultimatum to Brussels, as suggested in his social media post.
“I can only state that we have observed the tweets you mentioned; that is the basis for your inquiry,” commented Stefan de Keersmaecker, the Commission’s deputy chief spokesperson, reiterating the importance of enhancing an already strong partnership.
Photo credit & article inspired by: Euronews
