European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen issued a strong warning to the United States on Tuesday. She cautioned against imposing punitive tariffs on European allies over Greenland. Von der Leyen called such a move a serious mistake that could harm long-standing partnerships.
Davos Speech Highlights Trade Deal Commitment
Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, von der Leyen addressed the proposed additional tariffs directly. She emphasized the existing agreement between the European Union and the United States. The two sides reached a trade deal last July.
"The proposed additional tariffs are a mistake especially between long-standing allies," von der Leyen stated clearly. "The European Union and the United States have agreed to a trade deal last July. And in politics as in business - a deal is a deal. And when friends shake hands, it must mean something."
Response to Trump's Remarks
Her comments came as a direct response to remarks by US President Donald Trump. On Monday local time, Trump said he would proceed with plans to impose tariffs on European countries. He stated he would move forward "100%" unless a deal over Greenland is reached.
Von der Leyen's warning carries significant weight in this context. She represents the collective voice of European nations facing potential trade penalties.
Offering Cooperation on Arctic Security
The EU chief also addressed growing tensions over Greenland by offering cooperation with Washington. She pledged increased European involvement in the Arctic region. This represents a strategic shift in European foreign policy.
"We are working on a massive European investment surge in Greenland," von der Leyen announced. "We will work with the United States and all partners on wider Arctic security. This is clearly in our shared interest."
Europe's Push for Strategic Independence
Von der Leyen underlined the need for Europe to adapt to changing global dynamics. She stressed that Europe must accelerate its push for independence in various strategic areas.
"Europe must speed up its push for independence - the world has changed permanently, we need to change with it," she explained. "Europe is preparing its own security strategy, upgrading our arctic strategy."
Background of the Greenland Dispute
President Trump has intensified his efforts to gain control of Greenland from Denmark. Denmark is a fellow NATO ally, making this situation particularly sensitive. The European Union is now considering possible countermeasures in response.
According to Reuters reports, this dispute risks destabilizing the NATO alliance. The military alliance is already under considerable strain from multiple factors:
- The ongoing war in Ukraine continues to test alliance unity
- Trump's position on allied defense spending creates additional tensions
- Geopolitical shifts require new strategic approaches
The Greenland issue represents more than just a territorial dispute. It touches on fundamental questions about alliance relationships and global power dynamics. European leaders recognize they must respond strategically to protect their interests.
Von der Leyen's statements reflect a careful balancing act. She offers cooperation while asserting European independence. She warns against damaging actions while proposing collaborative solutions. This approach aims to preserve important transatlantic relationships while securing European interests in a changing world.
