US President Donald Trump has intensified his push to acquire Greenland, escalating tensions with key European allies ahead of the World Economic Forum in Davos.
Trump posted a series of provocative social media messages targeting the UK, France, and NATO leadership. He criticized the UK’s decision to cede the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, calling it an “act of total weakness” and linking it to his rationale for acquiring Greenland. He also released private messages from French President Emmanuel Macron and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, framing his Arctic ambitions as a matter of national and global security.
Key Actions and Claims
- Trump threatened 200% tariffs on French wine and champagne to pressure Macron into joining his so-called “board of peace” initiative. Macron reportedly rejected the invitation.
- Trump posted a doctored image showing a US flag on Greenland, declaring it “US Territory, Est. 2026.”
- He maintained that Greenland is imperative for national and world security and insisted European leaders would ultimately comply.
- Trump framed his aggressive stance as part of a strategic approach, dismissing suggestions that it was tied to his Nobel Peace Prize disappointment.
European Response
- EU leaders condemned the tariff threats as a mistake between long-standing allies. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called for a united and proportional response, emphasizing joint Arctic security efforts.
- German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Europe wanted to avoid a trade dispute but could respond if tariffs were imposed.
- US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that retaliatory measures would be unwise and reiterated that Trump views Greenland as a strategic asset.
- EU leaders plan an emergency summit in Brussels to coordinate their response.
Context
Trump’s aggressive diplomacy comes as he prepares to appear at Davos amid broader tensions over trade, Arctic strategy, and US-European relations. His focus on Greenland is part of a larger effort to assert US dominance in strategic regions while using tariffs and public messaging to pressure allies.
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