France Criticizes EU-US Trade Deal as Unfair

The US and EU, represented by President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, have agreed on a trade deal imposing a 15% tariff on most European exports to the US and committing the EU to buying large quantities of American energy and weapons. The agreement, intended to avert a transatlantic trade war, has been praised by some EU leaders and industry groups for bringing stability, but has sparked strong backlash in France, where officials have labeled it an act of 'submission' and a 'dark day' for Europe. Critics argue the deal disproportionately favors the US, threatens European industry—especially automotive manufacturing—and undermines economic sovereignty. Although some EU sectors are exempt from the tariffs, French officials and others call for the EU to consider stronger retaliatory measures if trade imbalances persist. Financial markets have reacted with caution, reflecting both relief over the avoided trade war and skepticism about the deal's long-term benefits. The agreement has exposed divisions within the EU and raised concerns about its ability to defend its economic interests.