Raising the geopolitical stakes, the EU warns Trump’s tariff threat might cause an unwanted power shift and a “downward spiral.” A massive gamble involving the purchase of Greenland has sparked a new trade dispute between the US and the EU. European leaders warned that President Trump’s threat to impose tariffs until he gets the territory is dangerous.
The EU leadership, represented by Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa, pushed back against the pressure. They stated that tariffs would harm transatlantic relations and promised that Europe would remain united. The message from Brussels is that sovereignty is not for sale and that the bloc will remain coordinated.
President Trump’s plan is to impose a 10% tariff on goods from nations like Denmark, Norway, and Germany starting February 1. He warned that this rate would jump to 25% on June 1 if a deal for Greenland is not reached. This move targets some of America’s closest allies in an attempt to secure a strategic land purchase.
The EU also defended recent military activities in the Arctic, which had been criticized. Leaders explained that the Danish exercises were standard, pre-coordinated measures to ensure Arctic security. They emphasized that these actions pose no threat and are consistent with maintaining peace in the High North.
While acknowledging that the US and Denmark began talks last week, the EU is mobilizing to support its member state. Leaders expressed solidarity with Denmark and emphasized the need for a collective response. The emergency meeting on Sunday will be crucial in determining how the EU navigates this intersection of real estate and trade war.