A former US ambassador to the European Union has cautioned the UK and its European partners that tariffs will likely be a key negotiating tool during Donald Trump’s presidency. Gordon Sondland, who served as ambassador under Trump’s administration, issued the warning during an appearance on BBC’s Newsnight.
“We’ve had a list of demands and requests of all of these friends for years and in some cases decades,” Sondland stated.
“The results are similar every time: ‘we’ll think about it,’ they’ll get back to us, and Donald Trump’s had enough of that.”
Tariffs as a Negotiation Strategy
Sondland described the potential tariffs as a “very real threat, designed to get attention.” He emphasized that they could remain in place until they “have some economic bite.”
“It really gets people off their derrières and to the table, to start to solve problems,” he added, underscoring the aggressive trade strategy that characterized Trump’s first term.
Trump himself hinted at similar measures during recent remarks, suggesting that the European Union could face tariffs similar to those imposed on China. He also criticized the UK, claiming it was “out of line,” though he expressed optimism that the issues could be resolved.
EU’s Response
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen responded to the warnings, emphasizing the EU’s desire for constructive dialogue but vowing to defend the bloc’s interests if unfairly targeted.
“We want a constructive dialogue with the US, but we are prepared to respond firmly if necessary,” von der Leyen said.
The potential for tariffs raises concerns of escalating trade tensions between the US and its European allies, signaling a possible return to the confrontational trade tactics that marked Trump’s previous tenure.