Staff Report
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen (CDU) has finalized a controversial customs agreement with U.S. President Donald Trump, triggering a wave of criticism from German political leaders.
The deal, aimed at reducing trade barriers and streamlining customs procedures between the EU and the U.S., is being hailed by Brussels as a “breakthrough in transatlantic trade relations.” However, many German politicians argue that von der Leyen acted unilaterally and without sufficient consultation with EU member states, potentially compromising European interests.
“This deal was negotiated in secrecy and places EU industries, particularly in Germany, at risk,” said SPD leader Lars Klingbeil. “It is unacceptable for an EU leader from the CDU to prioritize relations with Trump over the consensus of member nations.”
Critics also claim that the agreement disproportionately favors U.S. exporters, particularly in the agricultural and automotive sectors, raising concerns about competition and regulatory standards in the EU.
Von der Leyen defended the deal, insisting it would “boost EU competitiveness” and “strengthen the transatlantic alliance in a time of global economic uncertainty.” She added that the agreement would remove “unnecessary bureaucracy” and create new opportunities for European companies in U.S. markets.
Despite her assurances, opposition within Germany is intensifying, with some lawmakers calling for a formal review of the deal in the European Parliament.
The controversy comes as EU-U.S. trade relations remain a deeply divisive topic in Europe, with fears that Trump’s aggressive trade stance could erode EU sovereignty in future negotiations.
