Trump Backs Away From Europe Tariffs After Davos Talks, Signals Framework for Greenland Security Deal
U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that his administration will not impose tariffs on eight European countries, reversing an earlier threat that had unsettled transatlantic relations.
The tariffs were scheduled to take effect on February 1.
The announcement followed Trump’s discussions with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
According to Trump, the meeting proved “extremely positive” and resulted in the preparation of a broad framework for a future agreement concerning Greenland.
Speaking after the talks, Trump said the emerging framework is designed with the security of Greenland and the wider Arctic region in mind.
While he did not disclose specific details of the proposed arrangement, he emphasized that it is essential from both national and international security perspectives.
Rutte, responding to questions in an interview with Fox News, avoided addressing whether the United States was seeking sovereignty over Greenland.
Instead, he said the discussions were focused on how to implement the U.S. president’s vision for strengthening security across the Arctic region.
Earlier, Trump had warned of imposing a 10 percent tariff on Denmark and seven other European countries, with plans to raise the levy to 25 percent by June. The threat had heightened tensions between Washington, Greenland, and the European Union before being withdrawn.
Greenland “Part of North America,” Says Trump
Trump reiterated his long-standing view that Greenland is part of North America and described it as a territory of strategic importance to the United States. He argued that the vast Arctic island is currently vulnerable and that the proposed approach would benefit the U.S. as well as all NATO allies.
Referring to the proposed “Golden Dome” missile defense system, Trump said additional discussions are underway on how Greenland could figure into broader missile defense planning.
He also said that Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff have been tasked with overseeing the Greenland-related negotiations and will report directly to him as the process moves forward.
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