European leaders have firmly rejected US President Donald Trump’s threat to impose new tariffs on several allies over their opposition to his proposed takeover of Greenland, warning that such actions risk escalating tensions within the transatlantic alliance.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said “Europe will not be blackmailed,” as Denmark, the UK, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and Finland issued a joint statement condemning the tariff threats. The countries said the move could trigger a “dangerous downward spiral” and reaffirmed full solidarity with Denmark and the people of Greenland.

Trump has warned he could impose tariffs of up to 25% on goods from the eight countries from 1 February, arguing that Greenland is critical to US security. He has not ruled out acquiring the autonomous Danish territory by force, a stance that has drawn sharp criticism across Europe. According to a BBC report, European leaders stressed that tariff threats undermine transatlantic relations and violate core principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer held calls with Frederiksen, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Nato Secretary-General Mark Rutte, before speaking directly with Trump. A spokesperson said Starmer argued that using tariffs against allies for pursuing collective Nato security was wrong.

Greenland’s strategic Arctic location and natural resources have long attracted US interest, but public opposition remains strong. Recent protests were held in both Denmark and Greenland, while polls show a clear majority of Greenlanders and Americans oppose US control of the island. European leaders say they remain open to dialogue with Washington but insist it must be based on respect for international law and sovereignty.

BOB Post