France's Minister of the Economy, Finance, and Industry, Eric Lombard, sharply criticized the United States on Thursday for its newly imposed tariffs on European automobiles. Speaking in an interview with France Inter, Lombard described the US move as “very bad news and an uncooperative act,” warning that such measures would harm both American and European economies.

The tariffs, introduced amid escalating trade tensions between the US and the European Union, were condemned by Lombard as counterproductive and damaging. “Cooperation, not confrontation, is the only way to resolve trade disputes,” he emphasized, urging both sides to avoid actions that could trigger a prolonged trade war.

In response to the US tariffs, Lombard confirmed that the European Union is actively preparing a retaliatory package. The European Commission is finalizing a targeted list of US goods that would be subjected to counter-tariffs. Although the minister stopped short of revealing specific items on the list, he emphasized that Europe cannot afford to passively accept economic aggression.

“If we do nothing, we invite more of the same,” Lombard said, suggesting that a measured and strategic response is necessary to protect European economic interests. At the same time, he expressed hope that Washington and Brussels would soon recognize the high cost of continued trade hostilities and seek a more cooperative path forward.

The French minister’s remarks come at a time of heightened transatlantic economic strain, as both sides weigh the risks of retaliatory measures. His statement reflects growing unease within EU leadership over the direction of US trade policy and its potential impact on global markets and European industry.

As the situation develops, all eyes remain on whether diplomacy or escalation will prevail in what could become one of the most consequential trade disputes in recent years.