US calls for end of WTO disputes over steel and aluminum tariffs

The United States has urged European Union governments to reflect on whether they are really interested in the EU getting into an argument over US metal tariffs. The US also hopes to resolve the issue with Mexico and Canada.

US Ambassador Dennis Shih said at the monthly WTO dispute resolution meeting, which considered 12 requests for US tariffs and related responses, that Washington was "deeply disappointed" with the EU's stance.

China, Norway, Russia and Turkey have also asked the WTO to resolve the issue of the legality of US tariffs, despite Washington's claims that they are based on national security and therefore outside the jurisdiction of the WTO.

“We will not allow China to fatally undermine the US steel and aluminum industries that the US military relies on, as well as global security,” Shi said.

The Russian Economy Ministry said in a statement that the country will again ask the World Trade Organization to set up a panel of judges in November and consider the legality of US tariffs on steel and aluminum.

The United States does not have the right to block WTO proceedings again, as stated in a statement by the Russian ministry.