During a pivotal summit, EU leaders discuss defense strategy, trade conflicts with the U.S., and territorial disagreements.
Leaders of the European Union convened in Brussels to deliberate on defense strategies in light of increasing threats, particularly from Russia.
However, a significant portion of the discussion turned towards the United States, with President
Donald Trump's trade disputes and his controversial aspirations regarding Greenland taking prominence.
EU leaders reiterated their dedication to safeguarding Greenland, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warning of potential retaliation should the U.S. impose unjust tariffs on the EU. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized the importance of steering clear of a trade war while advocating for greater flexibility in defense expenditures to address the escalating threat from Russia.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz showed support for more adaptable defense financing but dismissed the proposal of creating joint EU debt for defense initiatives.
Regarding Greenland, European Council President
António Costa affirmed that the EU would uphold Denmark’s territorial integrity.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte proposed that NATO could provide security for Greenland, with support from Arctic allies.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen supported calls for strengthened collaboration in the Arctic region.
The summit also addressed rifts within the EU concerning military expenditure and arms acquisition, with countries like France promoting a 'Buy European' policy.
In an unusual occurrence, U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer took part in the dinner segment of the summit, marking the first such involvement since Brexit.
Von der Leyen further expressed her openness to exploring deeper security and defense collaboration with the U.K.