European officials continue to hit back at Trump over Greenland tariffs threat

President Trump's threat of new tariffs has exacerbated uncertainty in trade policy. He announced that unless a complete deal for the purchase of Greenland is reached, a 10% tariff will be imposed on all goods starting February 1, 2023, increasing to 25% by June 1. The EU has reacted swiftly, with French Finance Minister Roland Lescure emphasizing the unacceptability of blackmail and suggesting a united European front. He also mentioned being prepared to activate the EU's anti-coercion mechanism and proposed a G7 finance ministers meeting. German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil joined in, stating there would be a strong response to the tariffs but that the EU is interested in a solution with the US. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre also called the tariffs unacceptable, reflecting Trump's frustrations over not receiving the Nobel Peace Prize. The key question now is whether the EU will counter the US's tariffs, potentially escalating tensions further, much like last year's trade war with China.