EU leaders unite against US pressure
European leaders have vowed a coordinated response after President Donald Trump threatened new tariffs unless Denmark agrees to sell Greenland, a move that could spark a fresh trade conflict and strain transatlantic relations. Ursula von der Leyen, Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz all emphasized that the EU will remain “united, coordinated and committed” to protecting its sovereignty.
Trump announced on social media that starting February 1, goods from Denmark, Sweden, Norway, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Finland, and the UK could face a 10% tariff, potentially rising to 25% by June, until “a deal is reached for the complete and total purchase of Greenland.” The semi-autonomous territory belongs to Denmark, which, along with its European allies, recently conducted a joint mission there—an action that reportedly triggered the White House’s retaliatory measures.
Greenland tensions escalate
The Trump administration has stepped up its rhetoric in recent weeks, claiming Greenland must be transferred to US control for national security, dismissing Denmark’s capability to manage the territory and Arctic security. Danish officials countered, noting no Chinese ships have been spotted in Greenlandic waters for over a decade.
In response, European nations participating in the Greenland mission now face potential tariffs. French President Macron said Europe would not be intimidated, declaring that “tariff threats are unacceptable” and vowing a unified response. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson similarly stated that Europe would not allow itself to be “blackmailed,” highlighting the growing tension between the EU and the US.
Calls for Europe’s trade “bazooka”
The dispute has reignited calls in the European Parliament to deploy the EU’s anti-coercion instrument, a powerful trade tool designed to retaliate against political pressure. Adopted in 2023, the mechanism allows Europe to block access to its single market, limit trade licenses, and restrict public procurement for third countries.
Bernd Lange, chair of the European Parliament’s trade committee, warned that business as usual is no longer possible, accusing Trump of using trade as political leverage. Meanwhile, Manfred Weber, leader of the European People’s Party, urged freezing the EU-US trade deal, stating that zero tariffs on US products should be suspended until the Greenland issue is resolved. The standoff marks a major test of Europe’s unity and resolve in the face of unprecedented pressure from Washington.
