Ahead of the US Presidential Election, EU Holds 'Countermeasure Meeting'... "Protectionism Possible Regardless of Winner"

The European Union (EU) is pushing forward with a 'countermeasure meeting' ahead of the U.S. presidential election.

According to Politico Playbook on the 25th (local time), the meeting being prepared by senior officials of the EU Commission will involve ambassadors from the 27 member states, and trade, energy, and digital policies will be discussed as agenda items in preparation for the two possible outcomes of the U.S. presidential election. An informal summit will also be held in Budapest, Hungary, on the 8th of next month, three days after the U.S. election.

A diplomat said that if Vice President Kamala Harris is elected, "Although it may not be as chaotic as the Trump administration, the EU Commission wants to show that it is well prepared to handle any situation." Ariana Podesta, the EU's chief deputy spokesperson, also stated, "We are preparing for the U.S. election," adding, "We are considering all possible outcomes and have a firm stance to maintain a close partnership with the United States."

The EU is reportedly concerned about the recurrence of conflicts with the U.S. in various sectors, such as the imposition of high tariffs on European steel products during former President Donald Trump's administration. Although the EU has been active alongside the U.S. in imposing international sanctions on Russia and supporting Ukraine since the outbreak of the Ukraine war, there is a possibility of a rift if former President Trump returns to power.

Regardless of who is elected, there are also predictions that U.S. economic nationalism and protectionism will intensify. Charles Michel, President of the European Council, told the media the day before, "Do you think the U.S. will no longer be a protectionist country whether Harris or Trump is in office? They are a protectionist country, and I regret this situation."