European Union approves first set of retaliatory tariffs on US imports

The European Union approved retaliatory measures against U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum. Duties on U.S. imports will begin on April 15, with additional measures on May 15. The tariffs affect various goods, including poultry, grains, clothing, and metals, though a final list has not been provided.

The EU called the U.S. tariffs "unjustified and damaging," stressing the desire for a balanced negotiated outcome. The European Commission stated that countermeasures can be "suspended at any time," depending on negotiations. Additionally, the EU faces 20% tariffs on nearly all its U.S. imports. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen affirmed readiness to retaliate if talks fail.