Nicolas Forissier, the French Minister of Commerce, stated in an interview with the Financial Times that the European Union possesses the necessary tools to retaliate against the latest round of tariffs imposed by the United States. This comes after President Donald Trump announced a fixed global tariff rate of 10%, which was later increased to 15% following a Supreme Court ruling deemed many of the previously imposed tariffs illegal. Forissier emphasized that the EU is currently engaged in discussions both within its member states and with the European Commission regarding an appropriate response to these escalating trade tensions.

Forissier indicated that the EU's response could potentially involve measures such as the "commercial bazooka," a coercive tool that may impact US technology companies. This suggests that the EU is considering strategic options to counter not only the tariffs themselves but also the broader implications for transatlantic relations. The presence of such instruments indicates the EU's determination to protect its economic interests and maintain fair trade practices in light of what it perceives as American overreach in tariff policies.

Additionally, there is a suspended package of retaliatory tariffs that targets over 90 billion euros worth of American products, which could be implemented if negotiations do not yield satisfactory results. This highlights the seriousness of the situation and the potential for further escalation, as both sides navigate the complexities of international trade and seek to assert their positions on the global stage.