The European Union will be ready for tough negotiations with the United States to protect its own interests and will be pragmatic in trying to find solutions, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said as Europe braces for potential new U.

Officials need to manage diplomatic negotiations in a more volatile geopolitical environment, the commission president said in reference to a possible trade war between the bloc and the U.S.

She reiterated that the EU remains open and pragmatic in achieving its objectives but will resolutely defend its economic interests.