The European Union is reportedly preparing to go ahead with retaliatory tariffs against the U.S. if imminent talks don't succeed. “If no mutually acceptable solution is reached, both

the existing and possible additional E.U. counter-measures will automatically take effect on July 14 or earlier if circumstances require,” Olof Gill, European Commission spokesman, told

reporters in Brussels on Monday, Bloomberg and other media outlets reported. “The commission has been clear at all times about its readiness to act in defense of E.U. interests protecting

our workers, consumers and industry," said Gill, ahead of an expected meeting between the EU's trade commissioner, Maros Sefcovic, and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in