EU Leader Issues Strong Warning Over Trump's Greenland Ambitions
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen delivered a firm message at the World Economic Forum in Davos on Tuesday. She promised an unflinching response to Donald Trump's threats regarding Greenland. The US president has been pushing to acquire the autonomous Danish territory, creating significant transatlantic tension.
Transatlantic Relations at Risk
In her speech to global business and political leaders, von der Leyen expressed serious concern. She warned that Trump's actions risk plunging US-European Union relations into what she called a downward spiral. The situation centers on Greenland, a strategically important Arctic island that Trump wants to bring under US control.
The European Commission president made her position clear. She stated that proposed additional tariffs between long-standing allies represent a mistake. Von der Leyen emphasized that a downward spiral would only benefit adversaries both sides want to keep out of the strategic landscape.
She declared Europe's response would be unflinching, united, and proportional. This strong language reflects growing European concern about Trump's approach to international relations.
Trump Continues Greenland Campaign
Donald Trump maintained his focus on Greenland throughout the Davos gathering. On his Truth Social platform, he posted a fabricated photograph. The image showed him planting a flag in an icy landscape next to a sign reading Greenland US Territory Est. 2026.
The US president later reported having a very good call with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte. Their discussion centered on mineral-rich Greenland. Trump announced he agreed to a meeting of various parties in Davos to discuss the matter.
Trump expressed confidence that European leaders would not push back too much on his attempt to purchase the vast island. He told reporters they cannot protect Greenland themselves. The US president has framed his interest as protective, citing perceived Russian and Chinese threats to the territory.
European Response Takes Shape
European Union leaders plan to hold an emergency summit on Greenland in Brussels this Thursday. This coordinated response demonstrates the seriousness with which Europe views Trump's territorial ambitions.
The situation has created additional strain in US-French relations. President Emmanuel Macron will address the Davos forum amid deteriorating ties with Trump. The US leader threatened 200 percent tariffs on French wine and champagne after France declined to join his proposed Board of Peace.
Analysts have compared this board to a pay-to-play version of the UN Security Council. It requires a one billion dollar fee for a permanent spot. Trump confirmed inviting Russian President Vladimir Putin to join, while dismissing Macron as someone nobody wants who will soon leave office.
Diplomatic Maneuvering Intensifies
Macron will leave Davos without meeting Trump directly. Instead, he sent a message proposing a G7 summit in Paris on Thursday. The proposed meeting would address Greenland and ways to end Russia's war with Ukraine. Copenhagen, Moscow, and Kyiv would attend as sideline participants.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz plans to seek a meeting with Trump at the forum on Wednesday. Meanwhile, the Kremlin announced that Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev plans to meet members of the US delegation in Davos. This marks the first Russian participation since their exclusion following Moscow's 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
The United States has sent an unusually large delegation to Davos this year. This move signals Washington's desire to make its presence strongly felt at the global economic and political summit.
International Reactions Emerge
Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng addressed the World Economic Forum with pointed criticism. His country remains locked in a trade war with the Trump administration. He warned against a select few countries having privileges based on self-interest.
The Chinese leader stated the world cannot revert to what he called the law of the jungle where the strong prey on the weak. While not naming specific countries, his comments clearly addressed current geopolitical tensions.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also spoke at Davos on Tuesday. He has worked to reduce Canada's reliance on the United States amid tariff disputes with Trump. Carney recently turned a page on diplomatic tensions with China during a Beijing visit last week. He secured a preliminary trade agreement to reduce tariffs between the two countries.
Broader Forum Agenda
The World Economic Forum agenda includes multiple international flashpoints beyond Greenland. Participants will discuss crises in Venezuela, Gaza, Ukraine, and Iran. These discussions occur against a backdrop of significant global tension.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, a regular Davos participant, cancelled his appearance this year. His office cited a bad cold as the reason for his absence. This development removed a key diplomatic voice from the gathering.
The Davos forum continues through Wednesday with Donald Trump scheduled to address the annual gathering of global elites. His speech will likely address his Greenland ambitions directly, potentially escalating tensions further with European allies.
