EU warns Trump against tariff threats linked to Greenland bid

European Union leaders on Saturday warned against US President Donald Trump’s threat to impose tariffs on European countries unless his bid to purchase Greenland is accepted, saying such moves would undermine transatlantic relations.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa issued a joint statement hours after Trump threatened to slap tariffs of up to 25 percent on several European nations.

“Territorial integrity and sovereignty are fundamental principles of international law,” the leaders said, adding that these principles are essential for Europe and the wider international community. They stressed Europe’s shared transatlantic interest in peace and security in the Arctic.

“Tariffs would undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral,” the statement said. “Europe will remain united, coordinated, and committed to upholding its sovereignty.”

The warning comes days after Danish and Greenlandic officials held talks in Washington over Trump’s proposal to acquire the Arctic territory, discussions that ended without any agreement.

“The European Union stands in full solidarity with Denmark and the people of Greenland,” the statement said, while emphasizing that dialogue remains essential. EU leaders added they are committed to continuing the process initiated last week between the Kingdom of Denmark and the United States.