The European Union is pressing for a more ambitious trade agreement with the United States than the deals recently struck with the United Kingdom and China, according to EU officials on Thursday. In recent months, President Trump’s administration imposed a series of aggressive tariffs on European goods, including automobiles, steel, and aluminum. Although a sharp increase in tariffs was announced in early April, the U.S. later scaled it back to 10% for 90 days to allow space for negotiations.

In contrast, last week’s U.S.-U.K. deal maintained a 10% baseline tariff on a wide range of British exports. A separate U.S.-China agreement also paused some tariff hikes for 90 days but left duties significantly higher than before Trump took office. European officials made it clear they are not satisfied with this level of tariff reduction and expect better treatment. Polish Deputy Economy Minister Michal Baranowski, who chaired Thursday’s EU trade meeting, said the bloc wants a broader and more meaningful deal.

Sweden’s trade minister, Benjamin Dousa, echoed that sentiment, warning of potential EU retaliation if the U.S. fails to offer deeper tariff cuts. “If that’s what’s waiting for Europe, the U.S. can expect countermeasures from our side,” Dousa said. Baranowski noted that the EU still has time left in the current 90-day negotiation window and emphasized the importance of getting a fair deal rather than a fast one. EU negotiators see signs of progress, citing a recent de-escalation in U.S. rhetoric as a positive step.

EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic also signaled optimism after a “constructive” phone call with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. He stressed the EU’s goal of resolving immediate challenges while also laying the foundation for long-term cooperation. However, tensions could rise again if the U.S. proceeds with a Section 232 investigation into pharmaceutical imports, which could lead to further tariffs on drugs, many of which are produced in European countries like Ireland.

Irish Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris criticized the idea, calling it absurd to suggest that EU pharmaceutical exports could threaten U.S. national security. He warned that such tariffs would damage both economies, especially given the strong presence of American pharmaceutical companies in Ireland. Meanwhile, the EU remains cautious about possible side effects from U.S.-China trade shifts, especially fears of Chinese exporters flooding the European market. Still, Monday’s agreement between Washington and Beijing has helped ease that concern—for now.