Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte has called for 'thoughtful diplomacy' to address growing transatlantic tensions, following a dismissive remark by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent about Denmark. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Rutte acknowledged 'tensions at the moment' but stressed that dialogue and a focus on Arctic security were the only ways forward.
Bessent had earlier dismissed Denmark as 'irrelevant' and downplayed concerns that European investors might pull out of US markets. He described Denmark's investment in US Treasury bonds as 'less than $100m' and said he was 'not concerned at all'. He also criticised French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for their 'inflammatory' statements, urging leaders to avoid 'reflexive anger'.
President Donald Trump's threats to seize Greenland, a self-governing part of Denmark, have heightened tensions. Trump has proposed tariffs on several European nations unless they drop objections to his plans. Von der Leyen warned that the EU must adapt to a world of 'raw power' and be prepared to act with 'unity, urgency and determination' if necessary.
Despite the friction, Finnish President Alexander Stubb expressed optimism that a diplomatic solution could be found, noting that 'curveballs' are flying but an 'off-ramp' exists. The European Parliament is expected to suspend ratification of a EU-US trade deal, while other retaliatory measures are being considered.
