Juncker Criticizes Von der Leyen's Approach to Trump Trade Tensions

Jean-Claude Juncker, former head of the European Commission, has criticized his successor, Ursula von der Leyen, for her delayed personal involvement in addressing growing trade tensions with United States President Donald Trump. He believes she should have engaged with Trump sooner.

Von der Leyen and Trump met at the G7 summit in Canada, where they agreed to work towards a "good and fair" trade agreement. Juncker, in an interview, stated that the commission should have prioritized a meeting earlier, anticipating Trump's focus on trade. He emphasized that a deal would require the active participation of the commission's president.

Von der Leyen reported that her discussions with Trump included an agreement on the importance of like-minded countries safeguarding market stability, particularly in energy markets. She also indicated vigilance regarding the implications for international energy markets.

Trump had previously reinstated import taxes on steel and aluminum from the European Union. Juncker pointed out that he had successfully suspended tariffs in 2018 by promising increased EU purchases of US gas and soybeans. Trump has now threatened a 50 percent tariff on all EU imports if trade negotiations fail by July 9. Von der Leyen prefers a negotiated solution before this deadline, while also preparing contingency measures.

During his time in office, Juncker met with Trump seven times before reaching the 2018 agreement. Before the G7 meeting, von der Leyen's interactions with Trump were limited to brief exchanges at international events.

Juncker acknowledged the greater challenges von der Leyen faces, including Trump's increased hostility and reduced international travel. However, he maintained that delegating negotiations to trade commissioner Maros Sefcovic was not the right approach.

Juncker observed that Trump's public statements now reflect what he previously said privately, including accusations that the EU was created to harm the US. He believes leaders must protect their positions in negotiations with Trump. He stated that Trump respects those who are not submissive. Recalling his own interactions, Juncker mentioned Trump's descriptions of him as a "brutal killer" and a "tough guy," adding that it is necessary to earn Trump's respect.