Eight European nations, including the UK, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden, have issued a joint statement warning that US President Donald Trump's threat to impose tariffs over Greenland risks a 'dangerous downward spiral' and undermines transatlantic relations. The statement expressed 'full solidarity' with Denmark and the people of Greenland.
The tariff threat, targeting European allies from February unless the US is allowed to buy Greenland, has sparked widespread condemnation. Dutch Foreign Minister David van Weel described it as 'blackmail', while Finland's prime minister said tariffs would harm both Europe and the US. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen said the global geopolitical order and NATO's future were at stake, adding that Europe is stronger 'when we collectively show muscle'.
UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy stated that the UK's position on Greenland was 'non-negotiable' and called for an 'adult debate' with the US. Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to speak with Trump at the 'earliest opportunity', possibly at Davos. French President Emmanuel Macron is expected to urge the EU to activate its 'anti-coercion instrument' if tariffs are imposed.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said he spoke with Trump about the security situation in Greenland and the Arctic, and looks forward to seeing him at Davos. Even Trump's ally, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, condemned the threat as a 'mistake'. Former US Vice President Mike Pence also expressed concern, saying the aggressive approach threatens NATO alliance relationships.
