STOCKHOLM (CHATNEWSTV) — Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson on Wednesday criticized the United States’ decision to impose higher tariffs, warning that such trade barriers would hurt global prosperity and security.
“This is why I deeply regret the path the US has embarked upon, seeking to limit trade with higher tariffs,” Kristersson said in a statement. “We don’t want growing trade barriers. We don’t want a trade war. That would make our populations poorer and the world more dangerous in the long run.”
Kristersson emphasized the historical role of the U.S. in shaping Europe’s economic and political freedom, referencing American efforts in World War II and the Cold War.
“They defended freedom on our continent,” he said. “And when that same freedom was also applied to our economies, our societies became richer.”
The prime minister reaffirmed Sweden’s commitment to free trade and said his government was prepared for economic challenges posed by the tariffs. He also vowed to push back against protectionist policies within the European Union.
“In the EU, I will continue to take every opportunity to reverse these developments,” he said. “Our hope, and our goal, is that we will be able to contain the new US tariffs.”
Despite tensions, Kristersson signaled his willingness to restore trade relations with Washington.
“We want to find our way back to a path of trade and cooperation together with the US, so that people in our countries can enjoy a better life,” he said.
