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By Daniel Orton
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European Union leaders gathered in Brussels on Monday to address escalating tensions with the United States, as President Donald Trump has threatened to impose tariffs on EU imports and left open the possibility of using military force to take control of Greenland, a territory of NATO ally Denmark.
The meeting came as the EU continues to support Ukraine against Russia's invasion, while also navigating a growing rift with the U.S. under Trump's leadership. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warned that a conflict between Western allies would be a "cruel paradox" at a time of Russian aggression and Chinese expansion.
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Why It Matters
Since taking office last month, Trump has revived trade war rhetoric, hinting at steep tariffs on European goods. Meanwhile, he has yet to clarify how he intends to end the war in Ukraine within six months, a key campaign promise. European leaders view both issues as major tests of trans-Atlantic unity.
"We have to do everything to avoid this totally unnecessary and stupid tariff war," Tusk said in Brussels, where EU leaders were also discussing military spending and defense industry expansion.
Denmark, in particular, has pushed back against Trump's suggestion that the U.S. could take control of Greenland for security reasons. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen insisted that Greenland is "not for sale" and warned that a firm response would be needed if Washington pursued its claims.
What to Know
Trump's tariff threats echo his previous trade battles with Europe. During his first term, he imposed levies on European steel and aluminum, prompting retaliation from the EU. Leaders have since been in talks with Canada, which recently imposed duties on U.S. goods in response to a 25 percent tariff.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas warned that a trade war would benefit China, stating, "There are no winners in trade wars. If … the U.S. starts a trade war, then the one laughing on the side is China."
On the security front, Trump's remarks about Greenland have drawn alarm. Last month, he left open the possibility of deploying American forces to secure Greenland and the Panama Canal, calling Greenland "vital for national security."
Frederiksen underscored Denmark's commitment to defending its sovereignty while acknowledging U.S. concerns about Arctic security. "The Arctic region is becoming more and more important when we are talking about defense and security and deterrence," she said.
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What People Are Saying
French President Emmanuel Macron said: "The EU is a power that stands its ground."
He added that if the U.S. imposes tariffs, Europe "would have to make itself respected."
Frederiksen emphasized that her government has broad EU backing in rejecting U.S. claims to Greenland: "Everybody has to respect the sovereignty of all national states in the world, and Greenland is today a part of the Kingdom of Denmark."
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte acknowledged U.S. concerns but emphasized the alliance's commitment to Arctic security: "It's absolutely clear that Trump is right, and when it comes to the High North, we have to do more collectively."
What Happens Next
Denmark recently announced a $2 billion defense agreement with Greenland and the Faeroe Islands, including new naval vessels, drones, and satellite capacity. The deal aims to bolster Arctic security while reinforcing Danish sovereignty.
As Trump continues to redefine U.S.-EU relations, European leaders face mounting pressure to prepare for potential economic and security confrontations with their ally across the Atlantic.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press
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