Saturday, March 29, 2025
27 Countries Slam Trump’s Reckless Tariff Threat; Europe Gears Up to Thwart Greenland Grab
Davos/New Delhi: U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff threats over Greenland have ignited a storm in international politics. The European Union (EU) has firmly declared it will not bow to such U.S. pressure and will safeguard its strategic independence.
Trump’s 100% Tariff Ultimatum
On Monday, Donald Trump announced plans to impose “100 percent” tariffs on European allies until a deal is reached on the Greenland issue.
Affected countries include Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, Netherlands, and Finland. Starting February 1, all goods from these nations entering the U.S. will face an additional 10 percent tariff.
EU’s Firm Rebuttal
At the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) annual meeting, EU chief Ursula von der Leyen issued a stern warning to Trump:
Threat to Partnership: She called his move a “huge mistake” that would damage decades-old friendships and alliances.
Deals Must Mean Something: Referencing a trade agreement signed last July, she stressed, “Whether in politics or business, when friends shake hands, it should mean something.”
Benefit to Enemies: She cautioned that alienating allies would only aid common foes.
Europe’s New Strategy for Greenland
Amid rising tensions, the EU has decided to bolster its presence in Greenland:
Boosted Investments: Europe is ramping up investments there significantly.
Arctic Security Offer: Ursula offered Washington collaboration on Arctic security but signaled upgrades to Europe’s own defenses.
Solidarity Pledge: She affirmed the entire EU stands “like a rock” with Denmark and Greenland’s people.
Focus on Security and Autonomy
EU leaders, including Germany’s senior parliamentarian Manfred Weber, argue that in a changing world order, Europe must assert its “strategic autonomy.” They warn that if America undermines past agreements, Europe’s response will be resolute and united.
