European Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis has issued a strong warning that the European Union is prepared to respond with counter-tariffs if trade negotiations with the United States fail. Speaking with Atlantic Council’s Jorn Fleck during the IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings, Dombrovskis emphasized that the EU remains committed to resolving disputes but will act if necessary.

“We would welcome more clarity on the U.S. side, on what are exactly their expectations and how we can arrive to the solutions without this imposition of additional tariffs,” Dombrovskis said. He noted that the European Union had already approved a countermeasure package but chose to delay its implementation.

This delay followed a partial postponement of planned tariffs by U.S. President Donald Trump, who pushed back the duties for a 90-day period to allow room for dialogue. Despite this temporary pause, Dombrovskis indicated that the EU remains watchful and ready to act if discussions falter.

The looming threat of a renewed trade conflict has increased pressure on both sides to reach a resolution. The European Commission continues to call for constructive engagement with the Trump administration to find common ground and avoid the damaging effects of a tariff escalation.

As the 90-day window progresses, both Brussels and Washington face a narrowing timeline to either finalize a deal or brace for reciprocal economic measures. The EU’s call for clarity underscores the urgency for transparent and results-oriented negotiations in the face of escalating tensions in transatlantic trade relations.