In a firm response to President Donald Trump’s assertion that trade relations with Europe are an “atrocity,” Poland’s Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski clarified that the United States maintains a significant surplus in service trade with Europe. Speaking to reporters in Brussels, Sikorski emphasized the need for discussions grounded in factual data.
“I hope all participants base their opinions and decisions on facts,” Radosław Sikorski told journalists in Brussels.
Sikorski pointed out that while Europe enjoys a surplus in tangible goods trade with the U.S., the narrative shifts when looking at services, where the U.S. excels. “Every time one of us uses Uber, some proportion of the fee goes to the United States. Every time we watch a Netflix movie, money goes to the United States… Every time we use social media or AI, U.S. industry benefits,” he explained. He added that the trade relationship is characterized by substantial mutual benefits.
According to European Union statistics from 2023, the U.S. faced a goods trade deficit of €156.6 billion with the EU. However, it recorded a surplus of €108.6 billion in services, resulting in an overall favorable trade balance of €48 billion for the EU.
EU’s strategic response to potential tariffs
As discussions within the EU continue amidst rising tensions, Sikorski’s remarks illustrated the bloc’s strategy to counter Trump’s threats of imposing tariffs. Recently, Trump hinted at the possibility of extending tariffs to the EU after targeting China, Canada, and Mexico. While no specific announcements have been made, the European Commission has signaled its readiness to retaliate if necessary.
An EU official, speaking under anonymity, disclosed that the bloc has prepared a list of entities for potential retaliation should tariffs be enacted by the U.S. However, there remains optimism in Brussels that a trade conflict could be averted if the EU can present a favorable deal to Trump. This could involve increasing purchases of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the U.S., a proposal that has been discussed by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
Poland’s proactive energy strategy
In line with these discussions, Sikorski noted that Poland is already purchasing a considerable volume of U.S. LNG, underscoring the importance of Europe taking proactive steps to enhance its credibility with Trump. This includes greater financial commitment to defense and addressing security challenges in Africa without excessive reliance on the U.S.
While expressing concern over U.S. restrictions on exports of artificial intelligence chips to Poland, Sikorski cautioned against alarmist reactions to Trump’s comments. He stated, “I think we should judge actions rather than words. Things are moving very fast. It’s important not to overreact.”
As the situation unfolds, the EU remains vigilant, exploring avenues to strengthen transatlantic ties while preparing to respond to potential trade disruptions.