Washington has already escalated tensions on several fronts. The 30% tariffs are unacceptable for Europe, the Scandinavian official told international media.

Dusa regretted that the White House has opted for unilateral measures despite progress in previous negotiations, which, according he said, were close to an agreement that would have avoided the current conflict.

The Minister urged Brussels to prepare countermeasures: “We must anticipate complex scenarios, as US positions are constantly changing,” he warned.

The EU lacks the leeway to avoid retaliation, given Washington’s ultimatum on the tariffs it will implement starting August 1, experts consulted agreed about.

Earlier, US President Donald Trump confirmed on social media the imposition of additional tariffs on steel and other European products, separate from the existing 10% sectoral tariffs.

EU sources revealed that the European Commission is drafting possible responses, although it will continue negotiations until the deadline set by the United States.

Economic analysts considered an agreement unlikely, as both sides maintain incompatible demands regarding industrial subsidies and market access.

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