With the 2024 election finally in the rearview mirror, it’s time to look at the incoming impact of President-elect Donald Trump’s policies. And he’s wasting no time making waves.

One of his biggest stances during the campaign was the importance of tariffs and fair trade deals to put America first. Now, just days after his victory, it appears that those campaign promises are already pushing Europe to the negotiating table.

Trump’s critics, especially on the left, have long argued that tariffs would only end up hurting American consumers. They’ve spun this tale that tariffs raise prices and send shockwaves through the economy, ignoring the long-term benefits of fairer trade practices.

Well, here we are. European leaders are scrambling to figure out how they’ll keep Trump from imposing tariffs that might rock their own economic boats. Talk about a quick turnaround!

Europe’s Quick Moves for a Détente

It’s clear that Trump’s strong stance on tariffs has got Europe’s attention. Just ask European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who’s already suggesting a strategic plan to avoid any potential tariff hike. In her own words, there’s a clear path forward: buy more American liquefied natural gas (LNG). Now, that’s music to American ears, isn’t it? Trump hasn’t even officially taken office yet, and Europe is already talking about importing more American energy.

From Newsweek:
“European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is suggesting that one way to deter U.S. President-elect Donald Trump from imposing new tariffs is for Europe to buy more liquefied natural gas (LNG) from America.”

Von der Leyen mentioned her recent phone call with Trump, which was apparently a first step in “engaging” to avoid a trade conflict. But here’s the kicker: Europe is coming to Trump, ready to negotiate, without a single shot fired in this trade standoff. Trump hasn’t even needed to slap on any tariffs yet.

America’s Advantage in the Trade Game

During his campaign, Trump emphasized the power of fair trade, with a goal of securing better deals for American workers and industries. He’s always been clear: if other countries want access to American markets, they’ll need to play fair. And now it’s happening—Europe is feeling the heat to boost imports from the United States. For years, American energy industries have been capable of supplying massive amounts of LNG, and Trump’s policies are set to help them flourish even further.

Von der Leyen’s willingness to negotiate underscores how much America has to offer, not just to its own citizens, but to the global market. She made it clear that Europe’s plan involves direct talks, focusing on what she referred to as “common interests.” You’ve got to love it when American strength brings others to the table without us having to sacrifice a thing.

From Newsweek:
“First of all: engage, von der Leyen said, when asked about how to avoid Trump’s tariffs, referring to her phone call with the president-elect. Secondly, discuss common interests […] and then go into negotiations.”

This is a major win for the Trump administration-to-be and a win for American workers, industries, and energy producers. The whole point of fair trade is that it benefits everyone, but it’s especially refreshing to see a president who won’t let the U.S. get pushed around on the world stage.

Setting the Stage for America’s Energy Independence

Trump’s focus on American energy is a breath of fresh air after the Biden administration’s prioritization of foreign interests over American energy production. Biden was all about “clean energy” while ignoring American jobs and boosting reliance on foreign imports. But with Trump, we’re looking at a boom in energy production at home—and apparently, Europe’s going to be one of the biggest customers. This move would further strengthen our position as an energy leader while simultaneously reducing our reliance on countries that aren’t exactly our best friends.

The benefits are clear: American energy producers get a boost, European countries get access to reliable American natural gas, and we see a reduction in the energy prices that had ballooned under Biden’s policies. It’s almost poetic, isn’t it? Trump’s back, and once again, it’s America coming out on top.

Trump’s focus on fair trade and energy independence will likely set the tone for his administration’s relationship with Europe and the rest of the world. With Trump back at the helm, it looks like America is set to regain its strength as a trade and energy powerhouse—and Europe is taking notice.

Key Takeaways:

• Europe Moves Quickly on Trade: European leaders are already looking to buy more American natural gas to avoid Trump’s potential tariffs, proving that strong trade policies work.
• America as an Energy Powerhouse: Trump’s policies prioritize American energy production, setting the stage for more jobs and a stronger economy here at home.
• Trade on America’s Terms: Europe’s willingness to negotiate early on signals that Trump’s America-first approach is going to yield major benefits.

Source: Newsweek