France Embraces Power Struggle with Washington as Trade War Escalates
France embraces a power struggle with Washington as tensions rise over U.S. green subsidies and European industrial policy.
In the escalating trade war between the United States and the European Union, France is openly embracing a power struggle with Washington over economic influence and green subsidies. French leaders, including Economy Minister Bruno Le Maire, are taking a more assertive tone, urging Europe to match the U. S.
in defending its industrial interests. At the heart of the tension is the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), a sweeping policy that subsidizes American-made green technologies and is viewed in Paris as a threat to European industry. In response, France is pushing for a "Buy European Act" and calling on the European Commission to adopt a bold industrial strategy.
The move signals a broader effort to establish European strategic autonomy amid growing global competition with both Washington and Beijing. Despite differing opinions within the EU, President Emmanuel Macron has doubled down on economic sovereignty and resilience. While critics caution against rising protectionism, French officials insist that in today’s power-driven economy, Europe can no longer avoid hard choices — and France is ready to escalate the struggle if Washington won’t compromise.
