Heading into crisis talks, the EU warns Trump’s tariff threat might cause permanent damage to the alliance. As diplomatic tensions reach a boiling point, European Union leaders have called for an emergency meeting on Sunday to address President Trump’s ultimatum regarding the purchase of Greenland. The bloc fears that linking territorial acquisition to trade policy will undermine the foundational trust.
In a joint statement, EU chiefs Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa highlighted the risks associated with the proposed tariffs. They argued that penalizing allies is not a constructive diplomatic path and warned of a potential spiral of retaliation. The leaders reassured member states that the EU would stand firm and united in protecting its economic and sovereign interests.
The proposed timeline for the tariffs leaves little room for negotiation. Trump stated that effective February 1, goods from countries including Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and the Netherlands would be subject to a 10% tax. The pressure is set to intensify significantly, with tariffs jumping to 25% on June 1 unless the United States successfully acquires Greenland.
Beyond the economic implications, the EU addressed security concerns raised by the US regarding the Arctic. Leadership defended recent Danish military exercises as routine, pre-planned activities designed to bolster regional security rather than provoke conflict. They reiterated that the Arctic is a zone of peace and that stability there benefits both Europe and the United States.
As the clock ticks toward the Sunday evening meeting, the EU continues to signal strong solidarity with Denmark. While noting that talks between Copenhagen and Washington are underway, the bloc refuses to accept economic coercion. The outcome of the emergency envoys’ meeting will be critical.