Von der Leyen Holds Talks with US Congress on Greenland, Transatlantic Trade Issues
European Commission President stresses respect for Denmark and Greenland’s sovereignty while calling for closer EU-US cooperation amid Arctic tensions and Trump’s tariff threats.
US, JAN 20 : Amid rising tensions over Greenland, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met with a bipartisan US Congress delegation in Davos to discuss transatlantic trade and security concerns in the Arctic. The discussions also addressed President Donald Trump’s renewed threats to acquire Greenland and impose tariffs on Denmark and other European nations.
In a post on X, von der Leyen emphasised that respecting the sovereignty of Greenland and the Kingdom of Denmark is “of utmost importance” for transatlantic relations. She highlighted that strong EU-US coordination is crucial for ensuring security and prosperity, including support for Ukraine.
“I also addressed the need to unequivocally respect the sovereignty of Greenland and of the Kingdom of Denmark. At the same time, the European Union remains ready to work closely with the United States, NATO, and other allies, in partnership with Denmark, to advance our shared security interests,” von der Leyen said.
Trade relations were another key focus. She warned that tariffs undermine mutual economic interests, stressing that transatlantic trade and investment remain a major asset for both economies.
The meeting comes after Trump threatened 10–25 percent tariffs on Denmark and other European nations if Greenland is not sold to the US, citing national security concerns and Arctic competition from China and Russia. Earlier, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also criticised the use of tariffs against allies, reaffirming Greenland’s rights as belonging to Denmark and its people, while highlighting its growing strategic importance as Arctic climate changes open new sea routes.
