EU Parliament gives final green light to trade deal with U.S.

After considerable debate and criticism, the European Parliament has granted its final approval to a trade agreement with the United States. The vote, which took place on Tuesday, saw a large majority in favor, with 440 votes for, 151 against, and 50 abstentions.

The agreement, which concerns customs duties, has been a source of contention, with some accusing the European Commission of subservience. The approval marks a significant step nearly a year after European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen initially posed for photographs with the U.S. president to signify the deal's attainment in July 2025.

Despite the controversy, the parliamentary vote indicates a decisive move by the EU to solidify trade relations with the U.S. The final endorsement suggests that the safeguards the EU sought to implement within the agreement have been deemed sufficient by the majority of the parliamentarians.