- We engaged very actively with the United States on various levels. We did so in a firm but non-escalatory manner. We know that we have to work more and more for an independent Europe — European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen
The European Union leaders moved swiftly to cool tensions with Washington after US President Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs on several European countries over their opposition to US ambitions regarding Greenland.
Meeting at an emergency summit in Brussels on Thursday, the 27 EU leaders emphasized restraint and dialogue, despite what officials privately described as one of the most serious strains on trans-Atlantic relations in recent years.
The summit was convened after Trump warned of a 10 percent tariff on Germany, Denmark, Finland, France, the Netherlands, Sweden, Britain and Norway — countries that had deployed troops to Greenland amid growing concerns over US intentions toward the Danish territory.
Pressure eased shortly before the meeting when Trump stepped back from the tariff threat, citing a “framework of a future deal” on Greenland reached with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte during discussions at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the bloc had engaged Washington intensively but deliberately avoided escalation. “We engaged very actively with the United States on various levels,” she told reporters. “We did so in a firm but non-escalatory manner. We know that we have to work more and more for an independent Europe.”
Von der Leyen also praised the unity shown by EU leaders in responding to the tariff warning, describing it as a sign of Europe’s growing political cohesion in the face of external pressure.
European Council President Antonio Costa acknowledged growing differences between Europe and the United States but stressed the need to preserve mutual respect. “The European way of life is different from the American way of life,” he said. “Between friends, allies and partners, relationships must be managed with cordiality and respect.”
Despite the tensions, EU leaders signaled they remain committed to repairing relations with Washington rather than allowing the dispute to spiral.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz underlined the historical importance of the trans-Atlantic partnership. “You don’t just give up on this alliance,” he said.
“We have built it over 75 years. It is the most successful political alliance ever formed between Europe and America.”
While Trump’s temporary retreat eased immediate concerns, EU officials used the summit to prepare for the possibility of further economic or political pressure from Washington in the months ahead.
