Former EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has criticized a recent EU-US tariff deal, stating that it exposes Europe’s lack of strategic autonomy. In an interview, Borrell described the agreement as a “poor strategy” and a “surrender” to US demands, arguing that it gives the impression of weakness and submission. He pointed out that the deal, which followed threats of steep tariffs from the US, demonstrates that Europe is a long way from being a truly independent geopolitical actor.
Borrell’s comments highlight a broader issue of European dependency on the United States, particularly in the areas of security and trade. He noted that the recent agreement was not a true negotiation but a response to US pressure, which exploited Europe’s reliance on Washington for security. The deal’s concessions, such as promises to purchase large amounts of American military equipment and liquefied natural gas, are seen as contradictory to Europe’s stated goals of building its own defense industry and pursuing a green strategy.
The former diplomat’s analysis suggests that Europe’s disunity and timidity in the face of external pressure prevent it from effectively using its own diplomatic and economic tools. Borrell’s perspective serves as a stark reminder that despite years of discussions about strategic autonomy, Europe’s actions have often failed to match its rhetoric, leaving the continent vulnerable to the demands of powerful allies.
Sources:
Trump lays bare Europe’s weakness in just six months | International – EL PAÍS English
Borrell speaks out on the EU’s ‘double standards’ on Gaza, and US tariff failure – EUobserver
Former EU foreign policy chief criticizes European Commission over trade deal with US
