EU leaders signal united response after Trump's tariff announcement
Photo: French President Emmanuel Macron (Getty Images)
European leaders are ready to deliver a joint response to US President Donald Trump's tariff threats, according to French President Emmanuel Macron, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
Macron's position
According to the French President, Europe will not give in to tariff pressure and will act as one if the US carries out threats. The EU remains committed to the principles of sovereignty, national independence, and international law enshrined in the UN Charter.
Macron stressed that these principles underpin support for Ukraine and the creation of a coalition of countries advocating for a strong and lasting peace. He emphasized that France will continue to act decisively when it comes to Europe's security.
He also explained France's participation in military exercises in Greenland organized by Denmark. According to him, this decision is linked to security in the Arctic and along Europe's borders.
The French leader noted that no intimidation or threats can influence them — not in Ukraine, not in Greenland, and not anywhere else in the world.
He also stressed that tariff threats are unacceptable and that Europe will respond in a unified and coordinated manner if they are confirmed, ensuring respect for European sovereignty.
Swedish Prime Minister's position
A similar stance was voiced by Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, who said his country will not allow itself to be blackmailed.
"Only Denmark and Greenland have the right to decide on matters that concern Denmark and Greenland. Sweden stands firmly with its neighbour," he said.
Kristersson added that this issue concerns the entire European Union, noting that Sweden is already holding intensive consultations with EU countries, as well as Norway and the United Kingdom, on a joint response.
Position of the European Commission President
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also outlined her position, confirming the EU's full solidarity with Denmark and the people of Greenland.
"Tariffs would undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral. Europe will remain united, coordinated, and committed to upholding its sovereignty," she wrote on X.
UK Prime Minister's position
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called President Donald Trump's threat to impose tariffs on US allies "completely wrong."
"We have also made clear that Arctic Security matters for the whole of Nato and allies should all do more together to address the threat from Russia across different parts of the Arctic," he said, according to the BBC.
Starmer added that the UK will discuss the tariffs announced by Trump directly with the US administration.
Trump's tariffs
US President Donald Trump announced the introduction of tariffs against several European countries, linking the decision to Washington's intention to secure the purchase of Greenland.
The tariffs will be introduced in two stages. Starting February 1, 2026, a 10% duty will be imposed on all goods shipped to the US from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland. From June 1, 2026, the tariff will be raised to 25%.
Trump stressed that these restrictions will remain in place until an agreement is reached on the "complete and total purchase" of Greenland.
Earlier, on January 14, the US and Denmark had talks on Greenland-related issues in Washington.
Following the meeting, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen said the discussions on the island's future were constructive.
At the same time, he stressed that Copenhagen clearly outlined its "red lines" to the US side, urging Washington to keep restraint and a "cool head" in further discussions.
