European leaders have agreed to a new trade deal with the United States that raises tariffs on most European exports to fifteen percent, a move described by some as a reluctant concession to American demands. The agreement, reached after a meeting between President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, reflects Europe's deep reliance on the United States for both security and energy, especially amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine. While the deal is expected to negatively impact the European economy, officials argue it is a manageable setback compared to recent crises. The pact also includes commitments for Europe to purchase more American oil and gas, further shifting away from Russian energy sources. Despite concerns about the economic impact and the optics of the negotiations, European leaders prioritized maintaining strong ties with the United States over risking a larger trade dispute.