Former US President Donald Trump has once again said the United States must take control of Greenland for national security reasons.
On Monday night, Trump claimed that European leaders would not strongly oppose his position. However, European governments now appear ready to push back.
Greenland is a semi autonomous territory of Denmark, which is a member of both the European Union and Nato.
Trump has warned that if Europe supports Denmark, the United States could impose heavy taxes on European exports.
Europe Faces Economic Threat
European leaders fear that new US tariffs could badly hurt their economies.
Countries such as Germany and Italy depend heavily on exports to the United States.
Germany’s finance minister said Europe would not allow itself to be blackmailed. France also warned that using trade taxes as a political weapon is unacceptable.
Many European leaders described Trump’s comments as shocking and dangerous.
Soft Diplomacy Is No Longer Working
Since Trump returned to office, Europe had tried a calm and friendly approach.
That strategy now appears to be failing.
European leaders now believe they must combine diplomacy with strength.
They plan to tell Trump they support Arctic security cooperation while also preparing strong economic retaliation.
Europe Prepares Retaliation
EU officials are discussing possible tariffs worth more than ninety billion euros on American goods.
They are also considering limiting access for US companies to the European market.
These actions would affect US consumers and businesses.
European investors employ millions of Americans across the United States, giving Europe strong economic influence.
Europe’s Economic Power
Although the EU often struggles to speak with one voice politically, it remains a global trade giant.
The European Union accounts for nearly sixteen percent of world trade.
Because of this, Europe believes it can pressure the US into negotiations rather than confrontation.
EU officials say their goal is to engage Trump, not escalate the crisis.
Security Concerns Complicate Europe’s Position
Despite its anger, Europe still depends on the United States for security.
The US plays a key role in defending Europe and supporting Ukraine.
This makes it difficult for Europe to fully confront Trump.
European leaders fear that pushing too hard could damage vital security relationships.
UK Urges Cooperation
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Britain must maintain strong defence and intelligence ties with the United States.
He stressed that national security depends on good relations with Washington.
At the same time, he supported Danish and Greenlandic sovereignty.
Europe Risks Appearing Weak
Some analysts warn that if Europe continues to avoid confronting Trump, it may appear weak.
They argue that Europe must defend its allies and its values.
Failing to stand up now could harm Europe’s credibility within Nato and on the global stage.
Trump’s Firm Position
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the US sees Greenland as a strategic asset.
He warned Europe against retaliation.
This statement confirmed that Trump’s administration has no intention of backing down.
A Turning Point in Transatlantic Relations
Experts say Europe is now at a turning point.
The Greenland dispute is no longer just about territory.
It is about trust, alliances, and the future of cooperation between Europe and the United States.
Conclusion
Europe is moving away from quiet diplomacy and towards a firmer response to Trump.
While it still hopes for dialogue, it is preparing to defend its interests.
The coming days at the World Economic Forum may determine whether cooperation or conflict defines the next chapter of US Europe relations.