On the 30th (local time), German Chancellor Olaf Scholz stated that if the United States imposes tariffs on steel and aluminum and does not provide any options, the European Union (EU) will respond as one.
During his opening speech at the Hanover Industrial Fair that day, Chancellor Scholz noted that "Europe's goal is still cooperation," while reacting strongly to the U.S. tariff plans. He said in an interview with Reuters, "The answer to America's unilateralist policy is more free trade, greater competitiveness, and more technological sovereignty."
Chancellor Scholz warned, "Europe is not naive, but it is not weak either," adding that "a trade war will harm everyone." He also mentioned regarding U.S. tariff policy, "Europe wishes to solve problems through cooperation, but if there are no options, we will respond collectively." This reaffirms Europe's firm stance against America's protectionism.
He referred to Canada, the partner country for this year's fair, stating, "Canada is not a colony, but a proud independent nation," and "We stand with you." This is interpreted as a rebuttal to President Trump's remarks, suggesting the possibility of annexation by stating that Canada is the 51st state of the U.S. Chancellor Scholz strongly supports Canada's independence and sovereignty, expressing resentment towards President Trump's claims.
President Trump indicated tariffs on automobiles following steel and aluminum, and on April 2, he announced mutual tariffs. Steel and automobiles are major export items from the EU to the U.S., raising concerns that mutual tariffs may target the EU amid Trump's public complaints about high value-added taxes in the EU. In this context, Chancellor Scholz emphasized Europe’s unified response and clearly stated that trade wars would harm everyone.