While Washington and Brussels have announced a framework trade deal, significant reservations among key European leaders could stall the very actions needed to unlock the promised US tariff cuts. The agreement is not a self-executing treaty but relies on the EU to proactively introduce new laws, a process that is now subject to political headwinds.
The sharp criticism from French Prime Minister François Bayrou, who called the deal a “submission,” and the unenthusiastic support from Spain’s Pedro Sánchez, signal deep political discomfort. This sentiment reflects a belief that the EU conceded too much, too quickly, and that the terms are imbalanced.
These reservations are more than just rhetoric. They could translate into a “go-slow” approach within the EU’s legislative bodies. If influential member states like France decide to drag their feet or demand further concessions for their own industries (like wine), the process of introducing the required legislation could become bogged down in debate and delay.
A US official has stressed the need to move “quickly,” but the EU operates on consensus. The lack of unified, enthusiastic support for the deal means that the path to introducing the tariff-cutting bill may be far slower and more complicated than Washington anticipates, leaving the high 27.5% auto tariff in place for longer than expected.
Is the Deal Done? Why European Reservations Could Stall US Tariff Cut
