EU leaders will meet “in the coming days” to coordinate their response on Greenland following US President Donald Trump‘s threats of tariffs, European Council President Antonio Costa announced on Sunday. Trump has insisted he will settle for nothing less than ownership of Denmark’s autonomous territory. Follow our liveblog for all the latest developments.
Europe warns of ‘dangerous downward spiral’ after Trump threatens tariffs over Greenland
The eight European countries targeted by US President Donald Trump for a 10% tariff for opposing American control of Greenland blasted the move Sunday, warning that his threats “undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral.”
The joint statement by some of America’s closest allies signaled a possible turning point in the recent tensions over sovereignty and security nearly 24 hours after Trump’s threat.
It was also the most forceful rebuke of Trump from the European allies since he returned to the White House almost a year ago. In recent months, Europeans have mostly opted for diplomacy and flattery around him, even when seeking an end to the war in Ukraine.
Sunday’s statement, as well as some European countries sending troops to Greenland for a Danish military training exercise, appeared to be a step away from that strategy.
Trump says “it will be done” on getting “Russian threat” away from Greenland
US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that Denmark has not been able to do anything to get the
“Russian threat” away from Greenland, and said, “Now it is time, and it will be done!!!”
Trump has repeatedly insisted he will settle for nothing less than ownership of Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark.
Leaders of both Denmark and Greenland have insisted the island is not for sale and does not want to be part of the United States.
The EU and Britain stand firm in their commitment to uphold the sovereignty of Greenland and the Kingdom of Denmark, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said.
European capitals may hit the US with €93 billion ($107.71 billion) worth of tariffs or restrict American companies from the bloc’s market in response to US President Donald Trump’s threats to NATO allies opposed to his campaign to take over Greenland, the Financial Times reported.
US President Donald Trump‘s tariff threat against European allies – and NATO members – backing Denmark against his goal to seize control of Greenland puts the NATO alliance at risk, Danish foreign minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen said.
