Tariffs: France Urges Caution Amid a Fragile Truce

Within the French government, caution prevails following Donald Trump’s reversal on tariffs. While the U.S. president’s decision to suspend certain surcharges for three months may signal a de-escalation, Paris sees it more as a fragile reprieve than a true turning point.

“This is a pause in the escalation, not yet a shift in direction,” a government source told H24 MEDIA. “The freeze remains fragile and reversible.” In other words, the risk of renewed tensions is very much alive, especially given that many tariff measures are still in effect—starting with a 10% general rate and up to 145% for China.

Lingering Tensions

This context raises concerns about possible indirect effects, particularly “from the influx of Chinese overcapacity into the European market,” the same source warned. “Welcome to an environment clouded by uncertainty,” they added, capturing the prevailing mood.

The French government insists that this truce should pave the way for a genuine diplomatic opportunity. “This pause only makes sense if it leads to fair and balanced negotiations, with reciprocal guarantees, a clear timeline, and a multilateral framework,” the source explained.

Europe Between Openness and Resolve

With that in mind, Paris is urging the European Union to maintain a consistent stance—“open to dialogue, but firm on principles.” The goal, officials emphasize, is to “avoid cementing an asymmetrical situation” that would legitimize trade rules imposed unilaterally by Washington.

“Let’s not be lulled into a false sense of relief: it’s precisely during this apparent calm that the balance of power for the future is being shaped,” the source concluded, calling on Europe to “mobilize every available lever” in a trade battle that is far from over.