黑暗的一天，特朗普生吞冯德莱恩

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the unequal trade agreement reached between the European Union (EU) and the United States under the pressure of former President Donald Trump, highlighting the significant concessions made by the EU and the implications for future trade relations [5][6][7]. Trade Agreement Details - Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, accepted the majority of Trump's demands, resulting in a trade deal that is characterized as an "unequal treaty" [6][7]. - The agreement includes a reduction of tariffs on most European goods to 15%, while the EU will continue to face a 50% tariff on steel, aluminum, and copper from the US [9]. - The EU committed to purchasing $750 billion worth of US energy products over the next three years and promised $600 billion in investments in the US [10]. Economic Impact - The article notes that the EU's concessions will lead to a significant increase in tariffs on European products entering the US, with an estimated fivefold increase compared to previous rates [9]. - German automaker Audi reported a profit decline of over 30% in the first half of the year due to the impact of US tariffs [11]. - General Motors announced a loss of $1.1 billion in the second quarter, with a 35.4% year-on-year drop in net profit, attributed to the tariffs [16]. Strategic Responses - The "Donald Trump Task Force" was established to identify weaknesses in US-EU trade and develop countermeasures, including a $100 billion retaliation list targeting US products [13]. - The task force proposed measures against US tech giants like Google and Meta, citing market monopolization and tax evasion as justifications for potential sanctions [14]. - The EU's strategy included preparing for rapid and large-scale retaliatory measures if trade negotiations failed, although there was hesitation in executing these plans [18]. Political Dynamics - The article suggests that von der Leyen's decision to compromise was influenced by the broader consensus among European leaders, prioritizing security and political stability over trade disputes [22][25]. - German Chancellor Merz emphasized the importance of maintaining good relations with the US, viewing the 15% tariff as a manageable cost to avoid escalating tensions [24][25]. - The article concludes that the EU's approach reflects a painful but pragmatic decision to avoid a protracted conflict with the unpredictable Trump administration [27].