European capitals plan retaliatory tariffs worth over 90 billion euros or market restrictions against US in response to Trump’s threatened tariffs on NATO allies.
EU Plans Tough Response to Trump’s Tariffs
According to the Financial Times, European capitals are planning to impose tariffs on the United States worth over 90 billion euros or restrict access for American companies to the EU market. This move is a reaction to Trump’s announcement of additional tariffs on NATO countries opposing his plans to take over Greenland.
The EU is also developing a package of potential sanctions to strengthen the position of European leaders before key talks with Donald Trump at the 56th World Economic Forum in Davos.
NATO Chief Discusses Greenland with Trump
On Sunday, January 18, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte announced he had spoken with Donald Trump about Greenland and the entire Arctic. Rutte stated they will continue working on this issue and looks forward to meeting with Trump in Davos at the end of the week.
The 56th World Economic Forum begins Monday, January 19 and runs through Friday, bringing together the world’s most important political leaders.
European Leaders Warn of “Dangerous Spiral of Escalation”
Eight European capitals signed a statement expressing solidarity with Denmark and Greenland residents. Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and Great Britain assured their support for Copenhagen and Nuuk.
The eight countries wrote that as NATO members, they are committed to strengthening security in the Arctic as a common transatlantic interest. They stated that threats of tariffs undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous spiral of escalation, vowing to remain united and coordinated in their response while protecting their sovereignty.
“Europe Should Give Trump a Sharp Response”
German media are calling for a tough response from the EU. “Die Zeit” argues that Trump “retreats when faced with opposition,” citing the tariff dispute with China as an example. Boris Herrmann wrote in a similar tone in “Sueddeutsche Zeitung,” stating, “Not with us these numbers. Europe should give Trump a sharp response.”
Herrmann argued that whoever gives Trump a little finger must soon give more, eventually risking everything. This commentary comes amid reports that Trump has declared war on the EU over Greenland.
