Tensions are boiling over in transatlantic relations as Donald Trump doubles down on his Greenland fixation with sweeping tariff warnings. In a unified front, Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa, presidents of the European Commission and Council respectively, lambasted the U.S. plan as a direct assault on alliance solidarity.
Their stark statement warns that 10% duties on imports from eight European nations—Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, UK, Netherlands, and Finland—set to kick in February 1, could fracture decades of partnership. Without a Greenland agreement, rates jump to 25% in June, per reports.
Greenland’s unique status fuels the fire: Denmark’s self-governing outpost with vast resources and strategic position, yet tied to Copenhagen on security matters. Trump’s purchase pitches, revived since his 2025 return, have long irked allies.
Nordic voices rose first in defiance. Denmark’s Foreign Minister voiced shock, pledging alignment with Brussels. Regional leaders urged negotiation over pressure tactics among friends.
‘Upholding territorial integrity is non-negotiable under global law,’ the EU duo stressed. They vowed Europe’s solidarity, coordination, and dedication to mutual ties amid the peril.
Markets are jittery, with exporters eyeing cost hikes and supply disruptions. This clash revives memories of trade wars past, questioning if Trump’s deal-making bravado will prevail or provoke a broader rift. Observers watch closely as February approaches, hoping cooler heads foster compromise before economics suffer.