Germany and France warn the US: Europe cannot be blackmailed

On Monday, the German and French finance ministers spoke out against US President Donald Trump's threats to impose tariffs on European imports if the US is not allowed to buy Greenland.

Lars Klingbeil and Roland Lescure called such blackmail between allies unacceptable and warned that the EU is preparing a unified response.

At a summit in Brussels on Thursday, they are to decide on a package of tariffs worth €93 billion, which could come into force as early as February 6. In addition, an "anti-coercion tool" is also in play, which would restrict US access to public procurement and digital services.

According to Lescur, the aim is to show that Europe is not weak and can make its voice heard. At the same time, he expressed hope that transatlantic relations would return to negotiations rather than threats. Klingbeil added that no one wants economic escalation.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent argues that the US needs Greenland for global stability.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer joined the situation with a call for calm dialogue and the preservation of allied ties. According to him, Britain remains pragmatic but not passive — and although it does not plan retaliatory measures, it will not back down from its values.

(reuters, pir)