Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has called for “constructive” talks over Greenland that respect its territorial integrity, as European leaders gave a wary welcome to Donald Trump’s decision to drop tariff threats against countries opposing his plans to seize the island.
Frederiksen stated that while matters of security, investment, and the economy can be negotiated, Denmark’s sovereignty is non-negotiable. She emphasised that “Denmark wishes to continue a constructive dialogue with its allies on ways to strengthen security in the Arctic, including the US Golden Dome [missile-defence system], provided this is done with respect for our territorial integrity.”
The development comes after weeks of escalating tensions that risked the biggest breakdown in transatlantic relations in decades. Trump had previously threatened to impose a 10% tariff on imports from several European countries unless they dropped their objections to his Greenland plan, prompting the EU to consider retaliatory measures.
However, in a surprise move, Trump on Wednesday backed away from his threat to use tariffs as leverage to seize Greenland and also ruled out the use of force. He stated that a “framework of a future deal” had been found to settle the issue, though details remain scarce.
European leaders welcomed the news of a potential deal, while expressing caution. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni claimed a “victory of sorts,” saying that Italy had “always maintained it is essential to continue fostering dialogue” between allies. The Dutch Prime Minister, Dick Schoof, said it was “positive we are now on the path to de-escalation,” but added that the US, Canada, and Europe must now “continue to work together within NATO to strengthen security in the Arctic region.”
The German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, acknowledged the recent “frustration and anger,” but urged not to “be too quick to write off the transatlantic partnership.” France’s Finance Minister, Roland Le Scure, described the announcement as “a first positive sign that things are moving in the right direction,” emphasising the importance of “de-escalation.”
However, Germany’s Vice-Chancellor, Lars Klingbeil, cautioned that “everyone must understand that we cannot sit back, relax and be satisfied” with any potential solution. The EU’s reaction is seen as having influenced Trump’s shift in position, with a European diplomat stating that “EU firmness and unity have contributed to get him to change his position.”
As European leaders gather in Brussels for an emergency meeting to discuss the unpredictable US president, the future of the Greenland dispute and the broader transatlantic relationship remain uncertain, with the need for continued dialogue and cooperation emphasized by all sides.
