With the tariff deadline fast approaching, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is pushing for a swift and straightforward trade agreement between the EU and the U.S., as both sides continue talks to avoid a potential economic standoff.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Thursday called for a "quick and simple" trade agreement with the United States, stressing the urgency as the July 9 deadline for additional U.S. tariffs on EU goods nears.
“We have less than two weeks until July 9,” Merz said at a press conference during the EU summit in Brussels. He emphasized the need for swift action, noting, “We all agree that we must reach a quick result — there is no disagreement.”
His comments followed EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s announcement that the bloc had received the latest negotiation draft from Washington and was currently reviewing it.
U.S. President Donald Trump had previously threatened to impose a 50% tariff on EU imports starting June 1, citing stalled negotiations. However, after a conversation with von der Leyen, he postponed the implementation to July 9.
On Thursday, White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt hinted that Trump may still extend the deadline, saying the date was "not critical" and the final decision rests with the president.
Talks between the EU and U.S. are ongoing as both sides seek to finalize a deal and avoid a trade escalation.
Read next
18:44
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz praised Türkiye’s diplomatic efforts to mediate between Russia and Ukraine, calling for greater international pressure to push Moscow toward peace negotiations.
17:50
Germany
Germany intensified its diplomatic efforts on Sunday as Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul warned of a looming regional catastrophe in the Middle East, calling for immediate de-escalation and humanitarian access amid growing fears of a broader war.
14:40
Ukraine updates
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy met German Chancellor Merz in Berlin to push for stronger support and discuss ceasefire efforts amid renewed Russian attacks and rising frontline tensions.
15:00
World News
Germany's new Chancellor Friedrich Merz has set a bold agenda, emphasizing unity in the West over Ukraine, a robust German military, and economic revitalization to secure the nation's leadership role on the global stage.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment