BRUSSELS — European Union leaders convened on Monday to discuss their response to a growing threat posed by an ally, amid concerns that tensions could escalate into a trade war or territorial disputes. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, whose country is currently at the helm of the EU presidency, warned that it would be a severe irony if the EU and the United States found themselves in conflict at a time when both face direct challenges from Russia and increasing assertiveness from China.
Since his recent inauguration, U.S. President Donald Trump has raised alarms in Europe by suggesting the imposition of tariffs on imports from the EU and even hinted at the potential use of military action to assert claims over Greenland, an autonomous region of NATO ally Denmark. He has also puzzled European leaders by not outlining a clear plan to resolve the ongoing war in Ukraine, which he promised to end swiftly during his campaign.
Poland’s Prime Minister reiterated the importance of avoiding a “totally unnecessary and stupid tariff war,” stressing that the current situation poses a serious test to European solidarity. He acknowledged the unprecedented nature of this dilemma among traditional allies.
French President Emmanuel Macron asserted that the EU must maintain its stance and respond firmly to any tariffs, emphasizing that such threats from Trump are pushing European nations towards greater unity and proactive measures in addressing shared security concerns. Highlighting past tensions, such as the tariffs Trump imposed on European steel and aluminum, EU leaders have reached out to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau following Canada’s retaliatory measures against U.S. tariffs. Later reports indicated that Trump temporarily stalled his tariff threats while discussions on border security and drug trafficking continued with both Canada and Mexico.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the importance of the EU-U.S. relationship for global peace and prosperity, while cautioning that external challenges and uncertainties necessitate a robust response from Europe when faced with unmerited or arbitrary actions.
In response to Trump’s remarks regarding Greenland, Denmark’s Prime Minister reiterated that Greenland is not for sale and called for a unified EU response if Trump’s rhetoric escalates. She expressed her commitment to maintaining the sovereignty of Greenland, underscoring that it is an integral part of Denmark. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen commented on the need for a cooperative stance among EU members in the face of potential pressures from the U.S.
European Council President Antonio Costa affirmed that the EU has consistently supported Ukraine’s territorial integrity and would similarly uphold the sovereignty of its member states, including Greenland. He acknowledged the rising security concerns in the Arctic, particularly due to Russian and Chinese activities, and recognized the significance of collaboration in ensuring regional security.
Frederiksen shared the U.S. perspective on the Arctic’s growing importance for defense, indicating a willingness to enhance security cooperation between Denmark and the U.S. She mentioned her government’s recent announcement of a major investment to bolster surveillance and territorial claims in the Arctic region, which includes plans for new naval vessels and long-range drones to enhance national security capabilities.
