On 18th local time, representatives of European Union member states held an emergency meeting in Brussels, Belgium, to discuss how to respond to the latest tariff threats issued by U.S. President Trump regarding Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark.
President of the European Council: Special Summit to Be Held in Coming Days
On the same day, President of the European Council Costa issued a statement, noting that he had held consultations with member states on the latest tensions surrounding Greenland, reaffirming the unified position of all countries in supporting Denmark and Greenland on the principles of international law, territorial integrity, and national sovereignty.
Costa stated that all member states agreed that imposing tariffs would undermine transatlantic relations and contradict the EU-U.S. trade agreement.
He further emphasized that the EU is “ready to defend itself against any form of coercion” and remains prepared to continue constructive engagement with the United States on all issues of mutual concern. Costa added that the EU will convene a special summit in the coming days. According to officials, the EU is considering holding this summit on January 22.
Von der Leyen Holds Calls with Multiple Leaders, Stressing Resolute Defense of Greenland’s Sovereignty
On the same day, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen posted on social media, stating that she had held phone conversations with NATO Secretary-General Rutte, French President Macron, British Prime Minister Starmer, German Chancellor Merz, and Italian Prime Minister Meloni.
Von der Leyen noted that all parties stand united in resolutely upholding the sovereignty of Greenland and Denmark, and will always defend Europe’s strategic interests in the economic and security spheres.
On the 17th, Trump announced on social media that a 10% tariff would be imposed on goods imported from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland starting February 1. He further declared that the tariff rate would increase to 25% from June 1 until an agreement is reached on the “complete and absolute purchase of Greenland” by the United States.
Post time: Jan-19-2026