French President Emmanuel Macron has criticised the European Union’s approach in its recent trade negotiations with the United States, saying the bloc failed to project enough strength. Speaking during a cabinet meeting on Wednesday, Macron told ministers: It’s not the end of it.”
His remarks, reported by France 24, came after a last-minute trade deal was reached between European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and U.S. President Donald Trump to avoid steep tariffs that could have harmed Europe’s economy.
What the Deal Includes
The trade agreement, finalized just before the August 1 deadline, helped the EU avoid the full brunt of proposed U.S. tariffs. Under the deal:
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Most EU exports to the U.S. will face 15% tariffs—a rate higher than before but better than the threatened 30%.
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In exchange, the EU will purchase $750 billion worth of liquefied natural gas (LNG), oil, and nuclear fuels from the U.S. over three years.
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Additionally, the EU has pledged $600 billion in investments for the U.S. economy.
“To Be Free, You Have to Be Feared”
Macron didn’t hide his frustration with how the talks were handled. He said, “Europe does not see itself enough as a power yet. To be free, you have to be feared. We were not feared enough.”
He stressed that France has always maintained a firm and demanding stance and would continue to do so in future international discussions.
Mixed Outcome, Says Macron
Macron admitted that the talks were held under “difficult circumstances” but argued that the agreement provided short-term stability for both France and the EU. The deal “offered visibility and predictability in the short term and preserved French and European interests” in major export sectors, including aviation.
He also expressed optimism that future negotiations could secure new exemptions for the European Union as the terms are finalized.
Finance Minister Echoes Macron
French Finance Minister Éric Lombard backed Macron’s concerns, suggesting that the EU’s negotiation tactics lacked energy and urgency when it mattered most. “There is the issue of the negotiation method, which within the European Union… has perhaps not been as energetic or vigorous in certain phases,” Lombard told reporters.
He added that Macron’s message was clear: the EU must strengthen its ability to be feared and to carry weight in international negotiations.
