European Union leaders are preparing to delay any trade retaliation against United States tariffs ahead of the upcoming NATO summit in June, according to diplomats and officials cited by the Financial Times. The move is seen as a strategic effort to prevent diplomatic tensions with President Donald Trump and keep the focus on security cooperation.

Officials emphasized that Brussels should prioritize discussions on defense and security with Washington and refrain from making decisions on defense spending or issuing public criticism of Trump. One diplomat noted that any significant action on defense or trade could provoke Trump, who has repeatedly demanded that NATO allies raise their defense spending to 5% of their gross domestic product (GDP).

In preparation for the June 24–25 summit in The Hague, EU capitals are reportedly advocating for a scaled-back event to minimize the risk of confrontations. Those involved in the summit’s planning suggested that contentious issues such as Ukraine and climate change may be sidelined in favor of a streamlined agenda focused on defense commitments.

The EU’s measured approach underscores the delicate balancing act between economic disagreements and the critical need for transatlantic unity in defense matters, especially amid ongoing global security challenges.