European leaders respond strongly to US pressure on Greenland, with Tusk calling European strength essential amid international challenges.
Tusk: Europe Cannot Afford Weakness
On Tuesday, January 20, Donald Tusk posted on X that “concessions are always a sign of weakness.” He emphasized that “Europe cannot afford weakness – neither towards enemies nor towards allies,” stating that “concessions don’t bring results, only humiliation.” Tusk concluded that “European determination and self-confidence have become a necessity of the moment.”
Newsom Criticizes European Response
California Governor Gavin Newsom spoke at the Economic Forum in Davos on the same day, criticizing Europe’s cautious response regarding Greenland. Newsom stated, “I should have brought a whole stack of knee pads for world leaders. It’s simply pathetic,” adding that he “cannot stand this subservience.” He expressed hope that people “understand how pathetic they look on the international stage.”
EU Parliament Stands Firm on Greenland
A session in Strasbourg regarding Greenland saw rare agreement between pro-European and Eurosceptic forces. Danish socialist MEP Christel Schaldemose declared, “President Trump, regardless of threats, Greenland is not for sale.” Extreme right MEP Jordan Bardella emphasized that “The European Union cannot remain silent,” noting that this is “not about escalation, but about defending sovereignty.” Danish green MEP Villy Sovndal added, “Hands off Greenland.”
Extraordinary Summit Planned for Thursday
On Thursday, January 22, an extraordinary European Council summit will be held due to American claims regarding Greenland. President Antonio Costa emphasized that EU countries support Denmark and Greenland, stand in solidarity with them and unanimously assess that the threatened tariffs by Trump would weaken transatlantic relations.