European Union member states have reaffirmed their “full support” for Denmark and Greenland following escalating tensions with the United States. The EU has also asserted its capacity to defend against any form of coercion, following an emergency summit in Brussels.
EU Stands Firm Amid Transatlantic Crisis
The heads of state and government of the twenty-seven EU nations demonstrated unity in response to a crisis in transatlantic relations. The summit was urgently convened last weekend to address threats of tariffs issued by U.S. President Donald Trump against countries that resisted his interest in controlling an Arctic island belonging to Denmark.
Sovereignty and Support
According to a statement by European Council President António Costa, “Denmark and Greenland have the full support of the European Union. Only the Kingdom of Denmark and Greenland can decide on matters relating to Denmark and Greenland.” Costa made the statement during a press conference concluding the summit, which began Thursday afternoon.
Costa characterized President Trump’s Wednesday announcement at the Davos Forum (Switzerland) regarding the withdrawal of his tariff threat as “positive.” He noted that implementing the tariffs would have been “incompatible with the trade agreement between the EU and the United States,” finalized last summer.
Focus on Trade
The EU’s focus will now shift to implementing that trade agreement, with the goal of “effectively stabilizing trade relations between the EU and the United States.” However, Costa cautioned that the European Union “will continue to defend its interests and protect itself, its member states, its citizens and its businesses against any form of coercion.”
The EU, Costa affirmed, “has the power and the tools to do so and will do so if and when necessary.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the emergency EU summit?
The summit was convened to address threats of tariffs from U.S. President Donald Trump against countries that opposed his interest in controlling an Arctic island belonging to Denmark.
What is the “trade bazooka”?
The “trade bazooka” is the EU’s anti-coercion instrument, which could have been used as a retaliatory measure against the United States had the tariff threats been implemented.
What is the EU’s current position regarding trade with the United States?
The EU intends to focus on implementing the trade agreement finalized last summer, with the aim of stabilizing trade relations with the United States.
As the situation evolves, will the EU maintain its firm stance in defending its interests and those of its member states?
