I recently watched this video: China hits back with 84% tariff on US goods as markets fall, and saw the following well-received comment:

I’m from Ireland and I stand with China. I wish the EU would grow a spine and stand up to the US too.

Honestly? No.

It’s all fun and games to see the US face consequences for its own actions, but the EU absolutely shouldn’t follow suit. China can afford to do this: it has the world’s biggest manufacturing network, among other advantages, and it’s a fascist monarchy that doesn’t value its citizens—just like the US. These countries can play this game because the suffering of their people isn’t a relevant cost.

The EU, on the other hand, is known for its more humane approach to governance. A retaliatory tariff wouldn’t hurt the US as much as it penalises EU citizens. It’d be a fee on the people, not a punishment for the US. This kind of emotional posturing would only decrease the quality of life of Europeans.

This is exactly why adult babies with fragile egos shouldn’t be governing the lives of millions, let alone billions.