Marine Le Pen, a prominent figure in French politics, has vehemently criticized the newly finalized EU-US trade agreement, labeling it a significant setback for the European Union. She argues that the deal represents a considerable surrender of French industrial interests and compromises the bloc’s energy and military sovereignty.
The agreement, reached between European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and US President Donald Trump, aims to prevent an escalating trade war. It involves the EU increasing imports of US energy and military equipment in exchange for a reduction in US tariffs on European exports from a proposed 30% to a flat 15%.
Le Pen, a key member of France’s National Rally party, expressed her deep disapproval, describing the deal as a ‘political, economic, and moral fiasco.’ She highlighted that the EU secured worse terms than the UK, which had previously negotiated a 10% tariff rate – a deal widely considered unfavorable.
Further intensifying her criticism, Le Pen accused Brussels of accepting deeply unequal terms regarding American gas and weapons exports. She asserted that no truly patriotic French government would have consented to such conditions, characterizing the agreement as a complete surrender of French industry and sovereignty in both energy and military sectors.
Adding to her condemnation, Le Pen pointed out the deal’s negative impact on French farmers, suggesting it prioritizes the German automotive industry. She claimed that clauses within the agreement necessitate further opening of the single market to American agricultural products in return for reduced taxes on German car exports.
Le Pen concluded her critique by stating that this type of globalization, which undermines national sovereignty, is outdated and ineffective. She called for an acknowledgment of this ‘stinging failure’ rather than celebrating a deal that she believes will primarily harm the French people.
Her criticisms were echoed by Guy Verhofstadt, a former Belgian Prime Minister and MEP, who also condemned the agreement as scandalous and disastrous, highlighting the lack of concessions from the US. In contrast, President Trump lauded the deal as one of the most significant ever achieved, while President von der Leyen emphasized that the 15% tariff was the best possible outcome under the circumstances.
