EU Leaders Push for Swift US Trade Deal, Extend Russia Sanctions Amid Political Tensions
Brussels, June 27, 2025 – European Union leaders gathered in Brussels for a high-stakes summit focused on urgent trade negotiations with the United States and the extension of sanctions against Russia. The summit comes as the EU faces mounting pressure from President Donald Trump’s administration, which has threatened to raise tariffs on European goods unless a new trade agreement is reached by July 9.
Trade Talks with US Intensify
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron led calls for the 27-member EU bloc to secure a rapid trade deal with Washington. Both leaders stressed the need for a fair agreement, with Macron warning that Europe would respond in kind if the US maintains its 10% baseline tariff on EU products. The urgency is heightened by the Trump administration’s threat to increase tariffs up to 50% on key European exports, including steel, aluminum, and automobiles, if no deal is reached by the deadline.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen confirmed that the EU has received the latest US proposal and is reviewing it. “All options remain available,” von der Leyen stated, adding that the bloc is preparing for both a successful deal and the possibility of a breakdown in talks. The Commission is also considering a list of US goods that could face retaliatory tariffs if negotiations fail.
Sanctions on Russia Prolonged
In a show of unity, EU leaders agreed to extend sanctions on Russia for another six months, ensuring that measures related to Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine—including the freezing of over €200 billion in Russian assets—remain in effect until at least early 2026. The decision addresses concerns that Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban might block the renewal, potentially weakening the EU’s leverage over Russia as the war in Ukraine continues.
The summit also discussed the possibility of an 18th round of sanctions against Russia and the maintenance of a price cap on Russian oil, although some member states remain wary of potential energy price hikes.
Von der Leyen Faces Political Pressure
Amid these diplomatic challenges, President von der Leyen is contending with political turmoil at home. Far-right members of the European Parliament are preparing a no-confidence motion against her, citing alleged improprieties in vaccine negotiations with Pfizer in 2021. Reports indicate that a Romanian MEP has gathered enough support to table the motion, intensifying internal tensions within EU leadership.
Broader Agenda
Beyond trade and sanctions, leaders addressed ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, with a particular focus on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and efforts to revive nuclear negotiations with Iran. Discussions also covered defense, security, migration, and the EU’s global competitiveness.
President António Costa of the European Council summarized the summit’s objectives: “We will tackle several issues that must be addressed collectively to advance our shared goals: to create a more competitive, secure, and Europe for citizens, to ensure the European Union acts as an effective, predictable, and reliable global player”.
As the July 9 deadline approaches, EU leaders remain determined to defend European interests amid escalating trade tensions and ongoing geopolitical crises.