Assessing the economic impact, the EU warns Trump’s tariff threat might cause a recession risk for the eurozone. Bracing for impact, European Union leaders have reacted swiftly to President Trump’s threat to tax European goods if he cannot buy Greenland. An emergency meeting of envoys will take place this Sunday to forge a united path forward.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Council President Antonio Costa issued a message of unity. They warned that the tariffs could trigger a “dangerous downward spiral.” The leaders declared that the European Union would remain coordinated and committed to upholding its sovereignty.
The economic threat is specific. President Trump stated that a 10% tariff would be applied to goods from nations including Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands starting February 1. He further threatened to hike these tariffs to 25% on June 1 if the US does not acquire Greenland.
Addressing security concerns, the EU statement also defended recent Danish activities in the Arctic. Leaders explained that the military exercises were standard, pre-planned events conducted with allies. They insisted that these actions are defensive in nature and pose no threat to international partners.
Solidarity with Denmark remains the primary focus of the EU’s response. While acknowledging that dialogue between the US and Denmark is taking place, the bloc is mobilizing to ensure Denmark does not face this pressure in isolation. The emergency meeting on Sunday will serve to consolidate the EU’s position.