EU Commission president to meet Trump for trade deal

By Ilayda Cakirtekin

ISTANBUL (AA) - European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Friday said she will meet US President Donald Trump in Scotland, in an effort to avoid a 30% tariff on EU exports entering into force next month.

"We have agreed to meet in Scotland on Sunday to discuss transatlantic trade relations, and how we can keep them strong," von der Leyen wrote on X after having a call with Trump.

Trump, before departing for a visit to Scotland, said there is a "50-50 chance" of a trade deal between the US and EU.

Earlier this month, Trump announced a 30% tariff on all imports from the EU starting Aug. 1, giving the 27-member bloc time to negotiate a comprehensive trade deal.

Von der Leyen had said the 30% levy "would disrupt essential transatlantic supply chains, to the detriment of businesses, consumers and patients on both sides of the Atlantic."

She said the EU has “consistently” prioritized a negotiated solution with the US, remains ready to continue working towards an agreement by Aug. 1, but “will take all necessary steps to safeguard EU interests.”​​​​​​​