French Prime Minister Critiques EU-US Trade Agreement as a Step Back for Europe

PARIS - The French government has expressed strong disapproval of a recently established trade framework between the European Union and the United States, labeling it a significant setback for Europe. French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou articulated that the deal represents an undue concession to U.S. President Donald Trump and imposes a 15% tariff on EU exports while not mandating immediate retaliatory measures from the U.S.

Bayrou's remarks follow extensive French advocacy for a more assertive approach from EU negotiators in dealing with Trump, diverging from the more accommodating stances taken by Germany and Italy. He condemned the agreement as indicative of a troubling trend where Europe appears willing to submit rather than stand firm in defense of its interests.

Through a post on social media platform X, Bayrou described the situation as a dark moment for an alliance meant to uphold shared values and collective interests. His criticism was echoed by other French officials, including European Affairs Minister Benjamin Haddad, who acknowledged that while some sectors, such as spirits and aerospace, received exemptions, the overall deal remains fundamentally skewed.

Haddad emphasized the need for the EU to invoke its anti-coercion instrument, which would enable the bloc to respond to perceived economic pressures without resorting to tariffs. Trade Minister Laurent Saint-Martin also voiced concerns regarding the EU's negotiation strategies, asserting that a firmer stance was necessary to counteract what he described as a power struggle initiated by the U.S. administration.

Saint-Martin indicated that Trump only respects displays of strength, suggesting that a more robust response from the EU could have resulted in a more favorable agreement. He referenced President Macron's earlier stance advocating for reciprocal measures if the U.S. imposed tariffs on EU goods, particularly in the services sector where the U.S. maintains a trade surplus.

In contrast to France's critical view, leaders from Germany and Italy have taken a more conciliatory approach, possibly reflecting their countries' greater economic reliance on U.S. exports. Ultimately, the dynamics within the EU regarding trade negotiations with the U.S. highlight the varying national interests that continue to shape European unity.