Facing a Sunday emergency, the EU warns Trump’s tariff threat might cause a deep transatlantic rift. European Union officials have scheduled urgent talks after President Trump announced tariffs on European nations if the US cannot buy Greenland. Leaders warned that this move could cause a rapid deterioration in relations.
The EU’s top officials, Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa, issued a strong rebuke of the tariff plan. They argued that such measures risk a “downward spiral” that would harm both sides of the Atlantic. In their statement, they pledged that Europe would remain united and coordinated, refusing to compromise on matters of sovereignty.
The proposed tariffs target a wide array of European nations. Trump listed Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Finland as subjects for a 10% tariff starting February 1. He further escalated the threat by stating the rate would rise to 25% on June 1 absent a deal for Greenland.
In response to US concerns about military activity, the EU defended recent operations in the High North. Leaders clarified that the Danish exercise was a pre-coordinated effort to enhance Arctic security, not a provocation. They reiterated that peace and security in the Arctic are interests shared by both the EU and the US.
The EU expressed full solidarity with Denmark as it navigates this diplomatic pressure. While noting that the Kingdom of Denmark and the US began talks last week, the bloc insists on a collective response. Sunday’s emergency meeting of envoys will be pivotal in shaping how Europe counters this unique challenge.