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EU Warns Trump's Tariffs Will Undermine Transatlantic Relations

Published January 18, 2026, 08:10
EU Warns Trump's Tariffs Will Undermine Transatlantic Relations

The European Union has strongly opposed the new tariff policies announced by US President Donald Trump against a number of European countries. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa warned that these tariffs would undermine transatlantic relations and lead to a dangerous escalation. The EU emphasizes the importance of sovereignty and territorial integrity, referring to Denmark's recent exercise in the Arctic, which Trump has criticized. Costa stressed the need for a coordinated response from EU member states, reiterating the Union's commitment to upholding international law. Trump's move comes at a critical time, as the EU had just signed a significant trade agreement with Mercosur, an economic union of Latin American countries. The EU expresses its full solidarity with Denmark and the people of Greenland, considering dialogue as the only way to resolve disputes. At the same time, it warns that it will remain united and committed to protecting its sovereignty. Costa highlighted the need for peace and cooperation, rather than conflict, and stressed that the EU will continue to defend international law in all cases, as it has done for Ukraine and Venezuela. The EU seeks prosperity through opening markets, not imposing trade barriers.