European Union (EU) leaders have issued a strong warning to former U.

French President Emmanuel Macron stressed that Europe must assert its strength if targeted by Trump's tariff policies. “If we are attacked in terms of trade, Europe — as a true power — will have to stand up for itself,” Macron declared.

The high-stakes meeting, attended by leaders of all 27 EU nations along with Britain’s prime minister and NATO's head, primarily focused on strengthening Europe’s defense against an increasingly aggressive Russia. However, discussions were overshadowed by Trump’s escalating trade tensions, particularly his recent tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, with the EU reportedly next on his list.

Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk called for efforts to prevent an unnecessary and damaging trade war, while German Chancellor Olaf Scholz warned that such a dispute would harm both the U.S. and Europe.

“We can also react,” Scholz asserted, signaling a shift from Germany’s traditionally cautious stance on transatlantic trade.

EU’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, echoed these concerns, stating, “We need America, and America needs us as well. There are no winners in trade wars.”

The European Commission also weighed in, pledging a strong response if Trump imposes tariffs, calling his actions against Canada, Mexico, and China "harmful" and inflationary.

With tensions rising, Brussels had initially hoped for diplomatic negotiations to avoid a trade conflict with Trump. However, the EU now appears ready to defend its economic interests if provoked.

Stay updated as this developing trade standoff unfolds.