On January 20, Kaya Kallas, head of European diplomacy, stated that the European Union (EU) does not seek conflict with the United States but intends to stick to its position on Greenland. Speaking at a plenary session of the European Parliament, she emphasized that Europe possesses “the necessary levers of pressure” to protect its interests.
“We are not interested in picking a fight,” Kallas said. “But we will stand our ground. Europe has a number of tools to protect its interests.”
Additionally, Kallas noted the EU had entered “a crisis situation” on Greenland — an issue it had “never faced before.” She also indicated that NATO was “quite suitable” for addressing Greenland’s security concerns.
The European Union is reportedly working to develop a unified response to U.S. threats regarding Greenland. Questions remain about what impedes a cohesive European approach and the specific tools available to both sides.
On January 20, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that while the United States was finalizing a trade agreement with the EU, it would impose 10% duties on countries sending military personnel to Greenland. He stated this measure would take effect if Denmark did not voluntarily abandon Greenland.
Separately, U.S. President Donald Trump declared on January 20 that Denmark is incapable of defending Greenland, noting that some Danish officials “don’t even visit the island.” Trump added that the United States should obtain the territory.
