French President Emmanuel Macron sharply criticized the reciprocal duties imposed by United States President Donald Trump, warning on Thursday that the measures will have a “massive effect on the European economy.” Speaking after an emergency meeting with industry representatives likely to be most affected, Macron labeled the US tariffs “brutal and unfounded,” calling them “a shock for international trade.”

“You can’t correct trade deficits by imposing tariffs,” Macron argued, expressing concern that the new levies could lead Asian exporters to reroute their goods from the US to European markets, exacerbating competitive pressures within the EU.

In response to the growing trade dispute, Macron announced a robust two-phase retaliation strategy from France. The first stage, scheduled for mid-April, will address the US tariffs on steel and aluminum. The second wave of countermeasures, targeting other sectors, is expected by the end of the month.

Macron also urged French businesses to temporarily halt investments in the United States until further notice, signaling a more assertive stance from Paris. “Our response will be more massive than the previous one,” he said, referencing earlier EU reactions to US trade policies.

Calling for broader coordination, Macron appealed to fellow European leaders to present a united front. “Europe must remain firm and united,” he emphasized, suggesting that a collective effort could “dismantle” the tariffs and restore balance in transatlantic trade relations.

The comments reflect escalating tensions between two major global economies. With France leading a more aggressive counter-response and pushing for European solidarity, the diplomatic and economic implications of the US-EU trade conflict may intensify in the coming weeks.

As the world watches how Europe will answer Washington’s moves, Macron’s announcement marks a pivotal shift in tone—one that could define the next chapter in global trade negotiations.