Davos, Switzerland, January 20 (ANI): European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Tuesday warned the United States against imposing punitive tariffs on European allies over Greenland, calling such actions a “mistake” that could damage long-standing partnerships.
Speaking at the World Economic Forum, von der Leyen stated, “The proposed additional tariffs are a mistake, especially between long-standing allies.” She emphasized the importance of trust and commitment between partners, citing an understanding already reached between the EU and the US.
“The European Union and the United States agreed to a trade deal last July. And in politics as in business, a deal is a deal. And when friends shake hands, it must mean something,” she added.
Her remarks came after US President Donald Trump indicated on Monday that he would “100 percent” proceed with plans to impose tariffs on European countries unless a deal over Greenland is reached.
Amid rising tensions over Greenland, von der Leyen also expressed willingness to cooperate with Washington on Arctic security and signaled greater European engagement in the region. “We are working on a massive European investment surge in Greenland. We will work with the United States and all partners on wider Arctic security. This is clearly in our shared interest,” she said.
Highlighting broader global shifts, she stressed the need for Europe to adapt to changing dynamics and strengthen its strategic posture. “Europe must speed up its push for independence—the world has changed permanently, we need to change with it. Europe is preparing its own security strategy, upgrading our Arctic strategy,” von der Leyen added.
Trump has intensified efforts to seize control of Greenland from Denmark, a NATO ally, prompting the European Union to consider potential countermeasures.
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