EU Reacts To Trump Tariff Push Tied To Greenland And Arctic Tensions

TLDR

• Trump set 10% tariffs on Denmark and 7 EU nations over Greenland
• EU calls urgent Brussels meeting to address US tariff warning
• EU leaders say NATO partners should not be targeted with tariffs
• US lawmakers warn tariffs may raise costs and harm US economy

Tensions between the United States and the European Union escalated after President Donald Trump announced new tariffs targeting key NATO allies, including Denmark. The EU is now reconsidering its trade deal with the U.S., citing unacceptable pressure tied to Trump’s push to purchase Greenland.

EU Officials Condemn Tariffs and Defend Greenland’s Sovereignty

European Union leaders have strongly criticized new U.S. tariffs on several NATO allies, including Denmark, Germany, and France. The tariffs were announced by President Trump, who tied them to Denmark’s refusal to sell Greenland to the United States.

Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, said, “These actions do not enhance Arctic security and may empower our shared enemies.” She stated that Greenland is not for sale and that its sovereignty must be respected, regardless of tariff pressure.

Kaja Kallas, Vice President of the European Commission, warned that the tariffs weaken the transatlantic alliance. “China and Russia gain when NATO partners are divided,” she said. Kallas added that NATO, not trade threats, is the correct forum to address Arctic security concerns.

Brussels Calls Urgent Meeting to Address the Crisis

The European Union has called an emergency meeting of ambassadors in Brussels to discuss the situation. The meeting is set for Sunday and was confirmed by a representative from Cyprus, which currently chairs the EU Council.

Bernd Lange, chair of the European Parliament’s international trade committee, said Trump is “weaponizing trade for political pressure.” He urged that final approval of the transatlantic trade deal with the U.S. be paused. Although parts of the agreement are in effect, it still requires full European Parliament ratification.

Lange stated on social media, “This is not how allies behave. A clear boundary has been crossed.” Several other EU officials echoed this view, calling for a suspension of trade deal implementation until the tariff threats are withdrawn.

Trump Ties Tariffs to Greenland and Missile Defense Strategy

President Trump announced a 10% tariff on exports from Denmark and seven other EU countries starting in February. The list includes the UK, Germany, France, Sweden, Norway, the Netherlands, and Finland. Trump said the rate will rise to 25% by June 1 if no deal is reached.

In a post on Truth Social, he claimed these nations have long benefited from U.S. military protection and favorable trade policies. He said now they must “give back” by allowing Greenland’s sale to the U.S. 

He added that the “Golden Dome” missile defense system depends on Greenland’s location to operate fully. Trump also argued that Denmark cannot defend the Arctic region alone and warned of foreign influence increasing in Greenland.

US Lawmakers Push Back Against the Tariff Strategy

U.S. senators from both parties have spoken out against the tariffs and Trump’s strategy. Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen and Republican Senator Thom Tillis issued a joint statement from Copenhagen. They said that punishing close allies with tariffs weakens mutual trust and hurts the U.S. economy.

The senators emphasized that these NATO countries have fought alongside U.S. troops and supported American security. They urged the White House to use diplomatic solutions rather than economic threats.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer announced plans to introduce legislation blocking the tariffs. He warned that the move would further damage relations and increase costs for American families and businesses. He said, “These misguided tariffs have already caused economic harm, and now allies are being targeted over an unrealistic demand.”

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