Fact Sheet: The United States and European Union Reach Massive Trade Deal

The agreement between the EU and the US in the trade dispute has been heavily criticized by business associations and politicians. Those who have looked at the White House’s communication will have their critical stance reinforced. The justification for the negotiation outcome is that Europe cannot defend itself against Russia without the US, so more was not achievable. But what will the consequences be? Can the EU chart a course toward defense-political independence and economic strength? And what does the deal mean for Europe’s relationship with the US? Sympathy, friendship, solidarity, etc., are probably off the table for now. And this applies across the entire political spectrum.