The Daily Star Ireland
On May 7, 2025, Taoiseach Micheál Martin met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels to address escalating trade tensions between the European Union and the United States. The meeting coincided with the European Commission’s announcement of proposed countermeasures in response to recent U.S. tariffs on European imports.
The U.S. administration, under President Donald Trump, has imposed a series of tariffs affecting a broad range of EU exports, including steel, aluminum, and automobiles. These measures have prompted the EU to prepare retaliatory tariffs targeting approximately $114 billion worth of American goods, such as Boeing aircraft and U.S.-made cars. The EU’s proposed countermeasures are currently subject to a month-long consultation among member states and industry stakeholders.
During the meeting, Martin emphasized Ireland’s preference for a negotiated settlement, expressing concern over the potential economic impact of a trade war, particularly on vulnerable sectors. He highlighted the importance of resolving the dispute through dialogue to prevent further disruption to the global economy.
The Taoiseach also discussed Ireland’s upcoming six-month presidency of the EU Council, set to begin on July 1, 2026. He outlined Ireland’s priorities for the presidency, including enhancing EU competitiveness and addressing international crises such as the situations in Ukraine and Gaza.
Tánaiste Simon Harris addressed the parliamentary party, noting that the proposed EU countermeasures could present new challenges for Ireland. He indicated that difficult decisions might be necessary to mitigate potential economic repercussions.
The European Commission has expressed a willingness to negotiate with the U.S., proposing increased imports of American liquefied natural gas and agricultural products as part of efforts to reduce the transatlantic trade deficit. However, the EU maintains that it will implement its countermeasures if negotiations fail to yield a satisfactory resolution.
