Tusk publishes message to Europe warning that concessions are a sign of weakness as US claims on Greenland spark transatlantic tensions.
Tusk’s Warning to Europe
Donald Tusk posted on X on Tuesday, January 20, stating that “concessions are always a sign of weakness.” According to the prime minister’s post, “Europe cannot afford weakness – neither towards enemies nor towards allies. Concession does not bring results, only humiliation. European firmness and self-confidence have become a necessity of the moment.”
Newsom Criticizes European Response
In a similar tone on the same day at the World Economic Forum in Davos, California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized Europe’s cautious response to the Greenland issue. “I should have brought a whole stack of knee pads for world leaders. It’s just pathetic. I hope people understand how pathetic they look on the international stage. It’s a shame,” said Newsom, adding that “I cannot bear this subservience.”
Rare Unity in Strasbourg on Greenland Issue
A session was organized in Strasbourg regarding Greenland, and as reported by Polish Radio’s Brussels correspondent Beata Płomecka, there was rarely seen agreement between pro-European and Eurosceptic forces. “President Trump, regardless of threats, Greenland is not for sale,” said Danish MEP Christel Schaldemose of the socialist group. Jordan Bardella from the far-right, Eurosceptic right also criticized US actions. “The European Union cannot remain silent. It’s not about escalation, but about defending sovereignty. We don’t want to be vassals, we want to be masters of our own destiny,” he emphasized. “Hands off Greenland,” said Danish MEP Villy Sovndal from the green group.
European Council Summit to Address Greenland Dispute
On Thursday, January 22, an extraordinary summit of the European Council will be held regarding US claims on Greenland. President Antonio Costa emphasized that EU countries support Denmark and Greenland, solidarity with them, and unanimously assess that Trump’s threatened tariffs would weaken transatlantic relations.
