French Minister Flags Risks of Escalating Trade War
French Minister of Agriculture Annie Genevard on Sunday warned that the United States could face serious economic consequences if President Donald Trump escalates trade tensions over Greenland. Speaking after Washington announced fresh tariffs on eight European nations, Genevard said the move would hurt American interests as much as Europe’s. Moreover, she stressed that such actions could damage US farmers and industrial sectors. According to AFP, Genevard cautioned that while the European Union holds strong commercial leverage, the situation requires restraint. Therefore, she urged both sides to avoid steps that could spiral into a broader trade conflict.
Trump Announces Tariffs Linked to Greenland Dispute
Earlier on Saturday, President Trump announced a 10 per cent tariff on imports from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Finland. Additionally, he said the rate would rise sharply to 25 per cent from June 1, 2026. Trump linked the decision to opposition against his proposal to “purchase” Greenland, an autonomous Danish territory. In a Truth Social post, he claimed the Arctic island was critical for US national security. As a result, the announcement triggered immediate diplomatic unease across Europe.
EU Responds With Caution and Coordination
Following Trump’s statement, European Union ambassadors met in Brussels on Sunday to assess the impact and coordinate a response. Meanwhile, Genevard made it clear that Europe would not allow the US to act unilaterally. She described any attempt to acquire Greenland as “unacceptable.” Furthermore, she warned that escalating tariffs could prove “deadly” for both economies. However, she added that the United States stands to lose just as much, if not more, if tensions intensify. Therefore, European leaders are weighing measured countersteps rather than rushed retaliation.
Greenland Tensions Add Strategic Pressure
The dispute also ties into rising strategic competition in the Arctic region. Trump accused European nations of “journeying” to Greenland after NATO allies sent military personnel there for the ‘Arctic Endurance’ exercise. These deployments followed growing interest in Greenland’s strategic location and mineral resources. Nevertheless, Trump said Washington remains open to negotiations with Denmark and other countries involved. Even so, analysts warn that continued pressure through tariffs could deepen divisions between long-time allies. Ultimately, Genevard’s warning highlights the risks of turning a geopolitical dispute into a damaging trade war.
