Vice President Vance Formalizes US-EU Trade Talks in Rome
In May 2025, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance attended the inauguration Mass of Pope Leo XIV in Rome, Italy, and took the opportunity to meet with key European leaders to initiate formal discussions on US-EU trade talks. Amid years of lingering tariff tensions and tax policy disputes, this move signals a renewed diplomatic effort to find a constructive path forward.
📌 Vance’s Meetings in Rome and the Push for Trade Talks
Vice President Vance met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to discuss US-EU trade issues. Vance emphasized, “Europe is one of America’s most important allies,” noting that although differences exist, both sides should pursue long-term cooperation through open dialogue[6].
⚙️ Summary of Recent US-EU Trade Tensions
-
US Tariff Imposition: The U.S. has maintained a 25% itemized tariff and 10% base tariff on imports from Europe, including steel, aluminum, and automobiles[6].
-
EU's Response: The EU hinted at strong retaliation after the U.S. suggested a 20% reciprocal tariff, escalating the tension[6][8][19].
-
Rising Expectations: Following progress in U.S.-UK and U.S.-China trade deals, EU officials now show growing optimism for talks with the U.S.[12].
🔄 Shift in Vance’s Diplomatic Tone
Earlier this year at the Munich Security Conference (MSC), Vance harshly criticized European immigration policies and freedom of expression, drawing backlash from EU leaders. However, he has recently softened his tone, saying, “The U.S. and Europe are on the same team,” signaling a pivot toward practical cooperation on key policy issues[2][3][5][7].
🧭 Prospects for Negotiation and Progress
-
The U.S. and EU have intensified working-level negotiations, initiating technical talks on tariff and taxation disputes[12].
-
While both sides remain open to retaliatory measures if talks fail, the current tone favors “accelerated negotiations” and “long-term collaboration”[6][12].
-
Although frustrated with the U.S.'s persistent tariff policy, the EU is showing flexibility in hopes of securing tangible outcomes[19].
📝 Conclusion
Through his visit to Rome, Vice President Vance officially expressed the U.S.’s willingness to move forward on trade negotiations with the EU. Despite ongoing disagreements over key issues like tariffs, both parties appear committed to a framework of long-term cooperation, making meaningful progress a realistic possibility.
🔍 References
[1] https://www.chosun.com/international/international_general/2025/02/17/D5H32PZ2NNGX3OKJYIXLX5ZUKQ/
[2] https://www.bbc.com/korean/articles/c5yd1geqggpo
[3] https://kr.benzinga.com/news/usa/economy/%EB%B0%B4%EC%8A%A4-%E7%BE%8E%EB%B6%80%ED%86%B5%EB%A0%B9-eu%EC%9D%98-%EA%B4%80%EC%84%B8-%EB%8C%80%EC%9D%91-%EC%95%9E%EB%91%90%EA%B3%A0-%EC%96%B4%EC%A1%B0-%EC%99%84%ED%99%94/
[4] https://www.newsis.com/view/NISX20250519_0003180293
[5] https://www.voakorea.com/a/7976122.html
[6] https://www.ajunews.com/view/20250519091419945
[7] https://www.hani.co.kr/arti/international/america/1182635.html
[8] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7UUilX1PAvE
[12] https://www.asiae.co.kr/article/2025051609523119067
[19] https://marketin.edaily.co.kr/News/ReadE?newsId=02296006642136776
