The EU is advancing its 18th sanctions package. If the US decides on Graham’s sanctions, they would be “included in the package,” von der Leyen told Gordon Repinski. The full interview is available today in the Berlin Playbook Podcast (link provided). More information can be found (link provided).
A 500-percent tariff from the US against countries continuing to purchase oil or gas products from Russia would also affect the EU, including Germany.
Firstly, Russia still supplies energy to EU countries. However, they might be exempt from the mega tariff, hinted Graham—such as through exceptions for all countries supporting Ukraine.
Secondly, the EU itself might consider tariffs against third countries. When asked if the EU would attempt this, von der Leyen’s spokesperson Paula Pinho said: “The idea is to coordinate as much as possible.” However, “It doesn’t have to be identical.”
Thirdly, German companies could be affected indirectly if the US imposes even higher tariffs on countries like China and India.
Shock Moment: Wolfgang Weber, head of the industrial association ZVEI, called a 500-percent tariff a “drastic step.” He stated: “The EU would be affected, as well as the German electrical and digital industry, which operates globally and across borders.”
Regarding Merz’s US trip, von der Leyen said she coordinates closely: “We regularly phone and I will speak well with him again before he travels to the United States,” said the CDU politician. Merz meets Trump on Thursday.
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