BRUSSELS

European Union Council President Antonio Costa on Monday stressed the bloc's cautious approach to managing relations with the US, saying security concerns on Europe's eastern border take precedence over trade disputes.

"Trade is one dimension of our relationship with the United States. Security – especially during a war on our doorstep – is an existential concern. Escalating tensions with a key ally over tariffs, while our eastern border is under threat, would have been an imprudent risk," Costa said at the Bled Strategic Forum 2025.

"That is why, at this moment, we chose diplomacy over escalation. We gave space to dialogue, we chose restraint because we are responsible," he added.

The EU and the US reached a trade agreement in late August, following months of tariff tensions.

Under the terms of the agreement, the US agreed to reduce its 27.5% tariff on European automobiles to 15%, effective Aug. 1. In return, the EU committed to eliminating tariffs on a range of US industrial goods, including machinery, pharmaceuticals, and certain chemicals.

Acknowledging European frustration over the EU's perceived passivity in recent global developments, Costa stressed the interconnected nature of trade, security, and diplomacy.

"We certainly do not celebrate the return of tariffs or the limitations of an unbalanced trade framework. But we must be honest about the broader picture," he said.

Costa highlighted the EU's efforts to maintain dialogue and restraint to stabilize transatlantic relations while ensuring US engagement in Ukraine.

"Stabilizing transatlantic relations and ensuring US engagement in Ukraine’s security has been a top priority," he said.

He said the EU "must become more autonomous, more resilient and more prepared to act, more sovereign," adding: "We cannot anymore rely just on our allies when facing threats. We must take greater responsibility for our own destiny."