Brussels, Belgium – Geopolitical strategist Velina Tchakarova recently voiced sharp criticism regarding the European Union's efforts to secure a tariff deal with its "most important strategic partner," a sentiment widely interpreted as targeting the leadership of the European Commission. In a tweet, Tchakarova stated, > "If I were her, I would have walked through fire to get a tariff deal for my 450 million EU citizens with my most important strategic partner. Nothing else would have mattered - no „wait & see“ play games, no cozying up to China, no other noise. This is her epic fail as expected!"
Velina Tchakarova, a respected geopolitical strategist and former Director of the Austrian Institute for European and Security Policy (AIES), brings over two decades of expertise in security and defense analysis. Her critiques often focus on global trends, scenarios, and geopolitical risks, making her observations on EU trade policy particularly noteworthy. She is known for her insights into the complex interplay of economic and security factors in international relations.
The tweet appears to reference the ongoing dispute over steel and aluminum tariffs imposed by the United States, which have been a point of contention in transatlantic trade relations. Despite a temporary truce, a permanent resolution has remained elusive, with the EU seeking to avoid the re-imposition of tariffs that impact its industries and economy. Securing a comprehensive tariff deal is seen as crucial for stabilizing the economic relationship between the two major trading blocs.
The reference to "cozying up to China" highlights the broader geopolitical dilemma facing the EU, balancing its economic interests with Beijing against its strategic alignment with Washington. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has been central to these complex negotiations, navigating trade challenges with both the US and China while attempting to forge a unified European foreign policy. The criticism suggests a perceived lack of decisive action on the critical US trade front.
Analysts suggest that the failure to finalize a robust tariff agreement could have significant implications for EU industries and consumers, impacting the competitiveness of European goods and potentially straining the transatlantic alliance. Tchakarova's strong language underscores a growing concern among some experts about the EU's strategic priorities and its ability to effectively leverage its economic power in a rapidly evolving global landscape. The call for a more assertive approach reflects a desire for the EU to prioritize its core economic partnerships.