French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot warned yesterday (Saturday) that “if our interests are harmed, we will respond,” at a time when Donald Trump’s rise to power in the United States heralds stormy trade and diplomatic relations between Washington and the European Union.

Barrow said in an interview with the newspaper “Ouest France”: “Who has an interest in a trade war between the United States and Europe? The Americans have a trade deficit with us, but the exact opposite in terms of investment. Many American interests and companies are located in Europe.”

He added: “If we raise our customs duties, American interests in Europe will be the biggest losers. The same applies to the American middle classes, which will witness a decline in their purchasing power

According to what was reported by Agence France-Presse, Barrow warned: “If our interests are affected, we will respond with an iron will.”

He continued: “Everyone must be well aware that Europe has decided to ensure respect for justice in trade exchanges. If we find abusive or unfair practices, we will respond to them.”

Trump, who returns to the White House on Monday, has threatened the Europeans with imposing very severe tariffs. In particular, he expects the European Union to buy more American oil and gas and reduce its trade surplus with the United States.