Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has offered a distinctly lukewarm endorsement of the new US-EU trade agreement, signaling a lack of conviction that is shared by several other European leaders. “I support this trade agreement, but I do so without any enthusiasm,” Sánchez stated at a news conference, capturing the reluctant mood surrounding the deal.
Sánchez noted that the direct economic impact on Spain might be limited due to its smaller export exposure to the US market compared to giants like Germany. However, his unenthusiastic support speaks to broader European concerns about the agreement’s terms, which are seen as heavily favoring US demands and placing the burden of action on the EU.
The Spanish leader’s comments contribute to a picture of a divided Europe being pushed into a deal to avoid a worse outcome. The agreement requires the EU to introduce tariff-cutting legislation before the US reciprocates by lowering its steep 27.5% tariff on European cars. This structure is viewed by critics as a concession made under duress.
While Spain may not be as directly affected as automotive-heavy economies, Sánchez’s stance is significant. It shows that even member states with less at stake are uncomfortable with the precedent being set. This lack of unified, enthusiastic European support could create political hurdles as the bloc moves to legislate the commitments made in the framework deal.