French Prime Minister Condemns EU-US Trade Deal as a 'Dark Day' for Europe

In a sharp rebuke of the EU-US trade agreement finalized in late June 2025, French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal has labeled the deal a "dark day" for Europe, accusing the bloc of caving to U.S. economic pressures. The statement, issued on July 1, 2025, underscores a growing divide within the EU over the terms of the pact, which has been met with both support and skepticism across member states.

Criticism of the Agreement's Terms

Attal’s criticism centers on what he describes as an imbalance in the agreement, with European concessions outweighing reciprocal benefits. The deal, he argues, reflects a lack of strategic autonomy for the EU, particularly in sectors such as agriculture and digital services. He warned that the arrangement could weaken Europe’s ability to pursue independent trade policies and undermine long-term economic sovereignty.

The prime minister also expressed concern that the agreement fails to address longstanding European priorities, including the protection of small and medium-sized enterprises and the regulation of digital platforms. In his view, the agreement was reached under pressure from Washington, with European negotiators compromising on key issues to secure a deal.

Broader Implications for EU Cohesion

The criticism highlights a broader debate within the EU about the balance of power in transatlantic negotiations. While some member states have welcomed the agreement as a step toward stronger economic integration with the U.S., others—particularly in Southern and Eastern Europe—have echoed France’s concerns. The disagreement reflects a deeper divergence in how EU countries perceive their relationship with the United States in the context of global economic competition.

Attal’s remarks come at a time of heightened scrutiny over the EU’s trade strategy, with several member states calling for a more assertive approach in future negotiations. The prime minister’s stance is expected to influence the political discourse in the coming months, particularly as the European Parliament prepares to vote on the ratification of the deal.

Market and Political Reactions

The announcement has already sparked a mixed response from market analysts and political commentators. While some view the agreement as a stabilizing force in the transatlantic relationship, others see it as a potential setback for the EU’s efforts to strengthen its global trade position. The debate is likely to intensify as more details about the deal’s implementation emerge.

In conclusion, the French government’s public disapproval of the EU-US trade agreement marks a significant moment in the ongoing evolution of European economic policy. As the EU moves forward with ratification procedures, the challenge will be to reconcile divergent national interests with a unified approach to international trade.

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