Tensions between the EU and the United States are boiling over into potential economic warfare. A bombshell report from the Financial Times discloses that Brussels has a retaliatory arsenal ready: tariffs totaling 93 billion euros against U.S. imports or market access bans for American corporations. The trigger? Washington’s aggressive tariff threats tied to Greenland.
Insiders say EU officials are fast-tracking these options to bolster their hand before key Davos summits. The World Economic Forum in Switzerland will host face-to-face encounters between President Trump and Europe’s elite, making it a pivotal moment for diplomacy.
This countermeasures package was prepared months ago but shelved until early February in hopes of de-escalation. With Greenland emerging as a flashpoint, Sunday saw urgent deliberations among European delegates to activate it now. Additional measures under consideration include laws curbing U.S. business in Europe, per Xinhua.
Compounding the drama, the eight targeted countries have rallied together in a joint declaration of support for Denmark and Greenland against U.S. pressure.
Trump fired the latest salvo on Saturday via social media, declaring 10% tariffs on goods from Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and the UK effective February 1. Come June 1, he threatened a hike to 25%, holding firm until Greenland’s full acquisition is on the table.
Davos looms large, with Trump arriving mid-week for bilateral huddles, possibly including Ursula von der Leyen. Ukraine support gatherings could also feature on his agenda.
This saga underscores deepening rifts in Western alliances. As leaders converge in the Alps, the outcome could reshape trade dynamics for years, balancing economic self-defense with the risks of mutual destruction.