During a debate in plenary with presidents Costa and von der Leyen on the outcome of the 20 March European Council, S&D leader, Iratxe García, called for the Union to stand together in the face of challenges from far-right governments, which put our citizens’ rights at risk.

García proposed to use the anti-coercion instrument to defend our industry from Trump’s tariffs, to confiscate the €200 billion in frozen Russian assets, to suspend the association agreement with Israel and to suspend Orbán’s rights in the Council.
 
Iratxe García, S&D leader, said:

“Millions of jobs and the purchasing power of our citizens are at risk because of Trump’s measures, such as tariffs. If we don’t amend these policies, this could lead to ruined farmers, weakened industries, and consumers paying more for basic goods.

“But we won't allow this to happen. We will defend our workers and companies in the automotive, agriculture and food, steel and aluminium sectors with all our trade power. And we must not hesitate to use the anti-coercion instrument if necessary.

“We must also stand up to the autocrats allied with Putin and Trump within the European Union. Orbán has crossed every line with his new law banning Pride celebrations in Hungary. To all democrats across Europe, I want to send a message: let us take to the streets of Budapest this year to celebrate Pride and to defend European values.

“There is no place for discrimination or hate in our Union. And as long as Orbán continues attacking fundamental rights, we will block EU funds to his government and advocate for the suspension of his voting rights in the Council.”