Macron urges balance in U.S.-EU trade talks as bloc renews Russia sanctions

European Union leaders renewed economic sanctions on Russia for another six months on Thursday and reviewed the latest U.S. trade proposals during a summit in Brussels.

French President Emmanuel Macron said the EU remains open to a swift and pragmatic trade deal with Washington but called for fair terms. “Our goodwill should not be seen as a weakness,” he told reporters. “If the U.S. maintains its baseline tariff of 10%, Europe’s response must carry equal weight.”

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen confirmed that the EU had received a new document from Washington. “We are ready for a deal,” she said, adding: “At the same time, we are preparing for the possibility that no satisfactory agreement is reached. All options remain on the table.”

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz echoed the call for a streamlined process, saying the EU should pursue a “quick and simple” agreement. He noted that von der Leyen had also proposed exploring a new trade body led by European nations, as the World Trade Organization faces challenges.

The renewed push for a U.S.-EU trade agreement comes as President Donald Trump promotes updated tariff policies with global partners. Trump announced Wednesday that the U.S. had signed a trade deal with China and suggested a similar agreement with India may follow.

Separately, EU officials confirmed the extension of sanctions on Russia, citing the ongoing war in Ukraine. The measures will remain in place for another six months.

Leaders are expected to return to the trade agenda in July, with talks set to intensify in the coming weeks.

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