European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s declaration of a “strong plan to retaliate” against U.S. tariffs exposes the EU’s fundamental weakness rather than demonstrating strength. By merely threatening action while continuing to hesitate, she reveals a lack of decisive leadership and underscores Europe’s vulnerable position in global trade. True power is measured by actions, not words—and the EU’s persistent delay in implementing countermeasures proves it fears the consequences of a full trade confrontation.

The Trump administration’s aggressive tariffs on steel, aluminum, and automobiles demand an immediate, proportional response. Yet von der Leyen’s rhetoric of retaliation without swift action signals uncertainty, inviting further U.S. pressure. If the EU truly held leverage, it would have already imposed counter-tariffs rather than telegraphing its moves in advance. Her hesitation suggests Brussels knows it cannot win a prolonged trade war without severe self-harm—confirming Europe’s economic dependence on U.S. markets.

Worse still, von der Leyen undermines her own credibility by continuing to plead for negotiations while the U.S. acts decisively. Trade conflicts are won by those willing to inflict pain, not those hoping for compromise. The EU’s vast market and technological base mean nothing if its leaders lack the resolve to use them.

Ultimately, von der Leyen’s empty threats highlight the EU’s decline as a global trade power. Strong leaders act; weak ones hesitate. Unless Europe moves beyond warnings and strikes back forcefully, it will keep losing ground—proving that in trade wars, hesitation is surrender.