Brussels, 3 April 2025 (dpa/MIA) - The European Union is preparing countermeasures in response to new tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump but remains open to negotiations, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Thursday.

Speaking on the sidelines of a summit with Central Asian leaders in Uzbekistan, she called Trump's move a "major blow to businesses and consumers worldwide," adding that Europe was ready to respond and protect its interests.

She added that the tariffs will lead to millions of citizens facing higher grocery, medication and transportation costs, while inflation will rise and hurt the most vulnerable citizens.

The EU is already finalizing its first package of retaliatory measures and is now preparing additional steps to protect its businesses if talks with the United States fail, von der Leyen said.

Von der Leyen urged EU citizens not to lose faith, reassuring them that Europe is equipped to weather the storm. She also announced talks with the automotive and pharmaceutical sectors, hit hardest by the tariffs.

Trump on Wednesday announced new blanket tariffs of 10% on most imports to the United States, with higher penalties based on trade deficits for many countries. According to Trump, imports from the EU will face new tariffs of 20%.

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