Germany and France have vowed not to be blackmailed by US President Donald Trump over Greenland. Both countries promised a strong and coordinated response to any threats.
Trump recently threatened to impose higher tariffs on European imports until the United States is allowed to buy Greenland. The move escalated tensions over Denmark’s strategic Arctic island.
Speaking at a joint event, German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil said, “Germany and France agree: We will not allow ourselves to be blackmailed.”
French Finance Minister Roland Lescure added that coercion between allies of 250 years is unacceptable. He stressed that Europe values negotiation over threats.
EU Prepares Options
The European Union will hold an emergency summit in Brussels on Thursday to discuss countermeasures. One option under consideration is tariffs on $107.7 billion of US imports. These tariffs could automatically take effect on February 6 after a six-month suspension.
Another option is the EU’s “Anti-Coercion Instrument.” This tool could limit access to public tenders, investments, banking activities, or trade in services, particularly digital services where the US holds a surplus. Lescure said the instrument is mainly a deterrent but should be considered in the current situation.
Klingbeil emphasized that Europe does not want escalation. He said conflict would hurt economies on both sides of the Atlantic.
Europe Shows Strength
Both ministers stressed that Europe is not weak. Lescure called for reforms to boost technological capabilities and productivity. Klingbeil added that the EU, with 27 countries and 450 million citizens, must show strength economically, politically, and in security.
“What I expect from us as Europeans is to clearly put up a stop sign,” Klingbeil said, highlighting the importance of defending national sovereignty.
In other related news also read Fires Erupt Amid Intensifying Heatwave Across Europe
The statements from Germany and France underline a united European stance. Leaders are prepared to respond firmly if US threats over Greenland continue, while emphasizing negotiation over confrontation.
