In a rapidly changing global landscape, the European Union is finding itself wedged between the conflicting interests of two economic giants: the United States and China. Originally, some believed President Trump’s tariff plans might foster closer ties between Europe and China, as they positioned the EU against U.S. economic pressures. However, that narrative has shifted.
Now, EU leaders are urgently working to strike a trade deal with American officials to avoid broad tariffs from Trump that could severely impact their economy. Concurrently, they are pressing China to curb its support for Russia and its aggressive industrial financial practices, while also managing the influx of low-cost goods into Europe.
As the EU prepares for a summit in Beijing set for late July, optimism is fading. The expectation for meaningful dialogue with China is dwindling, revealing deeper frictions than any potential cooperation. According to Liana Fix from the Council on Foreign Relations, Europe lacks a "China card" to play, emphasizing that its plight in balancing these two powers is becoming increasingly complex.
