Germany cautions against costly trade war with US, urges negotiation

Germany has issued a warning about the economic consequences of a potential trade war with the United States, emphasising that such conflicts are detrimental to all parties involved.

Speaking on Wednesday, government spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit highlighted that the financial burden of a trade war is not one-sided but rather impacts both countries significantly. “The costs of a trade war do not fall on one side but can become expensive for both sides,” Hebestreit remarked.

The statement comes as Germany, Europe's largest economy, prepares for US President Donald Trump’s anticipated announcement of extensive new tariffs, reportedly dubbed "Liberation Day" tariffs.

Despite the looming threat of economic strain, Hebestreit expressed Germany’s willingness to engage in dialogue to prevent an escalation. “Berlin is ready and willing to negotiate at the European level with the United States to avoid such a dispute,” he added.