Ursula von der Leyen says tariffs over Greenland would be a mistake
Braving the crisp winter air in Davos, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen addressed the world stage with a clear message: tariffs between long-term allies are a mistake. She reminded attendees that the US and Europe had reached a trade deal just last year, emphasizing that in politics, as in business, a deal is a deal.
“In politics as in business, a deal is a deal,” von der Leyen said, nodding toward President Trump, who was en route to the summit. “And when friends shake hands, it must mean something.” She stressed that the people of the United States are not only allies, but friends. Plunging into a downward spiral, she warned, would only empower the adversaries both sides are committed to keeping out of the strategic landscape.
Europe, she insisted, would be “unflinching, united and proportional” in its responses. Turning to Arctic security, von der Leyen outlined a three-point package: the sovereignty of Greenland and Denmark is non-negotiable; a massive surge in investment in Greenland; and closer collaboration with the US on broader Arctic security, a shared interest for both sides.
Finally, she pledged that Europe would work with regional partners—including the UK, Canada, and Iceland—to strengthen combined security as it adjusts to a new strategic architecture, signalling a firm commitment to stability and cooperation in an era of global uncertainty.
