EU chief sends Trump clear message about future trade after tariffs pause

Summary

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed Trump's 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs, calling it a chance for a “frictionless” trade reset.

The EU also paused planned countermeasures but emphasized its continued shift away from U.S.-centered trade, citing instability in U.S. policy.

Von der Leyen reaffirmed EU's focus on global diversification and internal stability.

Trump dismissed EU proposals as inadequate and accused Europe of exploiting U.S. defense spending while being unfair in trade.