EU Parliament Freezes US Trade Deal Ratification Amid Standoff Over Trump’s Greenland Tariff Threats
EU lawmakers have chosen to delay the ratification of a significant trade agreement with the United States following President Donald Trump’s tariff threats connected to his demands regarding Greenland. The European Parliament’s decision reflects mounting tensions within the 27-member bloc as it considers its response should Washington intensify actions against longtime allies. A vote to eliminate tariffs on U.S. industrial goods under a deal reached in July had been anticipated in the near future.
Although the postponement does not nullify the agreement, it represents a clear signal to the White House. EU officials believe that halting the approval process could apply pressure on US companies that depend substantially on European market access. Renew Europe leader Valerie Hayer characterized the strategy as an effective negotiating instrument, pointing out that American businesses would be hesitant to forfeit opportunities in Europe.
Trump has issued warnings of new tariffs targeting six EU countries, including France and Germany, following their rejection of his proposals concerning Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark. EU leaders are set to convene in Brussels for an emergency summit to address the developing situation. Potential countermeasures under consideration include completely suspending the trade deal and implementing up to €93 billion in retaliatory tariffs on US goods. That tariff package was established during last year’s trade dispute but remained on hold until February 6 to avoid triggering a comprehensive trade war. France is additionally advocating for the EU to contemplate activating its anti-coercion trade mechanism should US threats become reality.
GREENLAND, THREATENED BY TRUMP: MINISTER
Greenland’s government on Wednesday (January 21) issued a new brochure providing guidance for residents in case of a potential “crisis” impacting the territory, which US President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated he wants to acquire from Denmark, a longstanding ally. Self-Sufficiency Minister Peter Borg characterized the document as “an insurance policy” during a press conference in Nuuk, Greenland’s capital. His comments followed Trump’s renewed calls for “immediate” discussions about US control of Greenland, while maintaining he would not use military force to obtain the island.
“We do not anticipate that it will ever be needed,” Borg said, emphasizing that the brochure serves as a precautionary measure rather than a reaction to an imminent threat.