The commission president is acknowledging a new alternative right-wing majority as she fights to preserve her signature political achievement.

E.U. chief Ursula von der Leyen said the bloc was ready for a trade deal with Washington, but hinted at preparations for countermeasures if a July 9 deadline was not reached.

"All options remain on the table," she told reporters following a EU summit in Brussels. "We are assessing it," von der Leyen said of the U.S. proposal. "Our message today is clear. We are ready for a deal.