EU braces for Trump tariffs: Commission pledges strong defense
The European Commission has announced its readiness to defend the EU's interests if the new U.S. President, Donald Trump, imposes the proposed tariffs on the union. "The agreement will make it easier to invest in each other's markets, supporting more companies to invest and set up business operations," stated Olof Gill, the Commission's spokesperson in Brussels.
The European Commission responded on Friday to inquiries about its plans following the recent discussions between Trump and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen regarding tariffs and Greenland. On Monday, 20th January, Trump is set to be inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States. His return to the White House is generating considerable emotions, heightened by his interest in the aforementioned matters.
Trump announced tariffs on the EU. The Commission responds
Paula Pinho, another spokesperson for the European Commission, commented that they had heard the statements regarding Greenland, including certain threats, and remembered them well. She explained that they were not taking further action at the moment and were waiting for the incoming administration to officially take office soon. Once that happened, she added, they would assess any specific actions that might materialize and respond accordingly.
Olof Gill, the spokesperson responsible for trade, mentioned that the European Commission is updating its trade policy with tools to safeguard the EU's interests and protect EU companies and member states.
The Commission's spokesperson stated that, although they did not intend to provide hypothetical answers to what was still a hypothetical possibility, they could reassure member states that the European Commission was prepared for all outcomes. The spokesperson emphasized that their goal with the new administration was to engage constructively to find a mutually beneficial solution. However, they also noted that the Commission was prepared for other scenarios and, if necessary, would defend its interests, companies, and member states.
Gill emphasised that the EU possesses a range of trade defence tools capable of addressing economic coercion and unfair competition that compromise equal opportunities. However, he declined to elaborate further.
Danish Prime Minister spoke with Trump concerning Greenland
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reiterated to Trump the statement from Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede, who assured that the island, currently a Danish territory, is not for sale, and Greenland will autonomously decide on its independence. Frederiksen reassured Trump that the EU and the United States share a mutual interest in strengthening trade relations.
This marked Frederiksen's first conversation with Trump after statements from the American President-elect suggesting that Greenland should be acquired. He did not exclude the possibility of employing force or economic pressure on Denmark through tariffs.
