The European Union is mobilizing a comprehensive package of countermeasures in response to President Donald Trump’s announced import tariffs targeting several European nations. The dispute centers on European resistance to American attempts to bring Greenland—a Danish autonomous territory—under increased U.S. economic and geopolitical influence.
Last week, Trump revealed plans to impose additional 10% import duties effective February 1st on goods originating from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, Netherlands, Finland, and the United Kingdom. The administration warned these tariffs could escalate to 25% if no agreement is reached regarding Greenland’s status.
European leaders have issued strong condemnations of Trump’s threats, characterizing the measures as unacceptable and counterproductive in a joint statement. They emphasized that such actions strain transatlantic relations and jeopardize the crucial trade partnership between the EU and United States.
In retaliation, EU member states are considering activating previously drafted counter-tariffs targeting American products worth approximately €93 billion. These measures, initially suspended during trade negotiations with Washington, now serve as potential political leverage. Additionally, European diplomats are evaluating deployment of the Anti-Coercion Instrument—a legal framework enabling economic responses to excessive pressure from third countries, including restrictions on U.S. corporations and market access limitations.
Brussels has expressed concern that escalating trade measures could damage both transatlantic cooperation and the multilateral trading system. However, the EU remains prepared to defend its economic interests should the U.S. proceed with its tariff implementation.
The Greenland controversy has triggered unprecedented diplomatic tensions between Europe and the United States. European officials consistently emphasize that Greenland’s future must be determined by its inhabitants, asserting that unilateral pressure through tariffs or other means violates contemporary international norms.