Europe Prepares Countermeasures Against US Tariff Threats Over Greenland
The European Union is preparing to respond to US President Donald Trump’s threat of imposing tariffs on several countries that oppose his plans to acquire Greenland. Germany’s Vice Chancellor, Lars Klingbeil, stated that Europe will not be “blackmailed” and is working on countermeasures with its European partners.
Trump’s threat, made on Saturday, involves imposing tariffs of up to 25% on European countries, including Denmark, which has an autonomous territory in Greenland. The affected countries, including Britain, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden, have already issued a joint statement condemning the threat.
Klingbeil outlined three possible responses from Europe. Firstly, the current tariff deal with the US would be put on hold. Secondly, European tariffs on US imports, currently suspended until early February, could be reinstated. Thirdly, the EU may use its available instruments to respond to “economic blackmail” against Washington.
French Economy and Finance Minister, Roland Lescure, agreed with Klingbeil, describing Trump’s threat as “blackmail” between allies and friends. Lescure emphasized the need for European unity and coordination in responding to the threat, and for the EU to make full use of its available instruments.
A meeting of G7 finance ministers is scheduled to take place in the coming days to discuss pressing issues, including the situation with Greenland. France, the current chair of the grouping, will host the meeting, which will also be attended by the US.
The dispute over Greenland has also led to a diplomatic incident, with the US special envoy to the Arctic island being disinvited to a dogsled race. The move follows Washington’s repeated threats to take over the autonomous Danish territory.
The European Union’s response to Trump’s threat is seen as a significant development in the ongoing trade tensions between the US and Europe. With the EU determined to defend its sovereignty, the situation is likely to escalate further in the coming days. The meeting of G7 finance ministers will be closely watched as the international community awaits the next steps in this developing story.
