European leaders said they would respond firmly to higher levies on steel and aluminum, but they had yet to say what that retaliation would look like.

European officials criticized trade wars as bad for businesses and consumers on both sides but insisted they would safeguard their own interests.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Tuesday vowed "firm and proportionate countermeasures" in response to U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to impose tariffs on all steel and aluminium imports,

European Union trade ministers will hold an unscheduled video conference on Wednesday to discuss the bloc's response to impending U.S. steel and aluminium tariffs, EU diplomats said on Tuesday. U.S. President Donald Trump signed proclamations late on Monday to raise tariffs on all steel and aluminium imports to 25% without exceptions or exemptions.

The European Union vowed to respond to President Donald Trump’s plan to impose 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen condemned the move, warning of “firm and proportionate countermeasures.

Donald Trump has praised Anthony Albanese as a "very fine man", as the prime minister seeks to get an exemption to steel and aluminium tariffs.