Core Viewpoint - The U.S. will not extend the tariff deadline of August 1, and negotiations with the EU are ongoing to reach a satisfactory trade agreement [1] Group 1: U.S. Tariff Policy - U.S. Secretary of Commerce Ross stated that the goal of negotiations with the EU is to open European markets for U.S. exports [1] - The critical issue is whether the agreement proposed by the EU is sufficient to persuade President Trump to abandon the 30% tariff threat [1] Group 2: EU Response - European leaders have indicated that if a satisfactory trade agreement is not reached before the August 1 deadline, the EU will implement countermeasures against U.S. tariffs [1] - The EU Commission spokesperson stated that countermeasures would take effect on August 7 if negotiations fail [1]

Core Viewpoint - Former German Chancellor Merkel emphasizes that the EU should not fear U.S. tariffs and must respond with its own tariffs if necessary [1] Group 1: U.S. Tariff Impact - Merkel states that if U.S. tariffs lead to higher prices for American consumers, it will also affect President Trump [1] - The U.S. has imposed a 50% tariff on EU steel and aluminum products, a 25% tariff on automobiles, and a baseline tariff of 10% on nearly all other goods [1] Group 2: EU Response Strategy - Merkel urges the EU to unite and retaliate with its own tariffs in response to any additional tariffs imposed by Trump [1] - She advocates for negotiations between the EU and the U.S. to resolve tariff issues [1]

Group 1 - The European Union (EU) is under pressure from the U.S. regarding tariffs, with the deadline for implementation pushed from June 1 to July 9, indicating potential negotiation space [2] - Recent interactions between China and European countries have increased, with leaders from France and Germany reaching out to discuss economic cooperation and the Russia-Ukraine conflict [2] - The EU recognizes the importance of maintaining stable relations with China amidst U.S. tariff threats, suggesting a strategic pivot towards deeper cooperation with China [2] Group 2 - The EU is not passively responding to U.S. tariff pressures; instead, it is exploring new opportunities for European businesses in light of the challenges posed by the Trump administration [4] - The Fourth China-CEEC Expo is seen as a platform for future technological and partnership developments, highlighting the EU's proactive approach to embrace China [4] - The EU faces a critical decision-making period, where it can either continue to seek leniency from the U.S. or strengthen ties with China, potentially challenging U.S. dominance in global finance [5]