BRUSSELS ― The European Union (EU) should motivate U.S. President Donald Trump to lift trade tariffs by increasing imports of American gas, while also considering its own penalties, according to Czechia’s Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský. This statement follows the White House’s implementation of unprecedented barriers affecting trade flows.
In an interview with POLITICO, Lipavský emphasized that despite unsuccessful closed-door negotiations, the EU could adopt a carrot-and-stick approach to prevent a full-blown transatlantic crisis. He remarked, “It’s clear that there was a political directive for the U.S. administration to take action, making prior negotiations ineffective before Liberation Day.”
He continued, “It is crucial that we re-engage with the U.S. and illustrate the current situation, highlighting our commitment to countermeasures exceeding €20 billion.”
Additionally, Lipavský supports the proposal to increase purchases of American fossil gas, which Trump has identified as essential for addressing the trade imbalance.
The European Commission has been engaged in a series of discussions with U.S. officials, and despite not reaching an agreement yet, Lipavský believes, “We should continue these dialogues.”
EU trade chief Maroš Šefčovič, along with other prominent officials, visited Washington recently to negotiate an agreement that would prevent the EU from being included in Trump’s controversial tariff list, which was unveiled last Wednesday. Brussels has even proposed investing in American fossil fuel infrastructure to increase imports; however, sources indicate that these initiatives have been met with indifference from the U.S. administration.
Lipavský expressed confidence in Šefčovič’s abilities, stating, “He has calculated the numbers effectively, which instills a lot of faith in me that he can negotiate successfully.”
“We need to demonstrate our strength and commitment in negotiations with the U.S.,” he added. “The ideal outcome is to avoid escalation — to make it clear to the U.S. that strong trade relations benefit both parties. If our concerns go unheard, then we must take action.”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has promised to respond to Trump’s tariffs with her own measures, which are anticipated as early as next week.
