An American official, quoted in a Reuters report, said it is up to Europe to decide whether to discuss new threats from President Donald Trump to impose tariffs on some European countries over Greenland.
The official added: “If I were the Europeans, I would probably try to separate this matter as much as possible. If they want to make it part of a trade deal, that is their business, not ours.”
This statement comes in response to Trump’s announcement on Saturday of a 10% tariff on the United Kingdom, Germany, Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, Finland, France, and Sweden.
Trump explained that the tariffs on European countries will take effect on February 1st, with the rate rising to 25% by June 1st, and will remain in place until an agreement is reached allowing the United States to purchase Greenland. Trump followed up by emphasizing that Washington’s need for “full and final” acquisition of the island has become more urgent in light of the development of defense systems, primarily the “Golden Dome” system and modern weaponry.
The U.S. President’s assertion was reaffirmed that the United States remains open to negotiating with Denmark and the relevant European countries regarding the acquisition of Greenland, despite the escalating tension surrounding this file.
European Council President António Costa, in a press conference following the European Union’s signing of a free trade agreement with the Mercosur bloc, stated that the EU is “very firm in defending international law,” adding that it is “coordinating a joint response by EU member states on this issue.”
Thousands protested across Denmark and Greenland on Saturday against Trump’s demand to annex the island, calling for respect for its inhabitants’ right to self-determination.
Over the past few days, European countries have sent limited numbers of military personnel to the island at Denmark’s request, movements Trump described as a “very dangerous game.”
The countries mentioned by Trump declared their support for Denmark, warning that any U.S. military seizure of territory within NATO could lead to the collapse of the Washington-led military alliance.
It is noteworthy that Greenland was a Danish colony until 1953 and remains part of the Kingdom to this day, but it was granted self-rule in 2009, allowing it to manage its affairs and determine its internal policy.
Source: Reuters
United News Network – UNN Arabic
An independent media platform providing reliable news and objective analysis, seeking to promote peace and cultural dialogue around the world to convey the truth and build bridges of understanding between peoples.
For more news, you can visit our homepage:
