Newsflash

EU explores €93B Trump tariff retaliation over Greenland threats

The European Union is preparing significant trade measures, including €93 billion in tariffs against the United States, to counter Donald Trump's attempts to assert control over Greenland. During an urgent meeting in Brussels, diplomats from the EU's 27 member states emphasized the need for strong retaliatory measures if upcoming talks with the U.S. fail to resolve the issue. The crisis escalated after Trump threatened tariffs on six EU countries, the U.K., and Norway, accusing them of obstructing his ambitions in the Arctic territory, which is part of the Kingdom of Denmark. European Council President António Costa announced plans to convene an emergency summit of EU leaders to address the growing crisis. 🌍💥

How can Europe respond to Trump's tariff threats over Greenland?

As the U.S. adopts a more transactional foreign policy under Donald Trump, Europe faces significant challenges in maintaining its security and sovereignty. The recent reluctance to impose sanctions on Russia, despite its ongoing aggression in Ukraine, highlights the shifting priorities of U.S. leadership. This leaves Europe vulnerable, particularly on its eastern border, where Russia is escalating military activity.

To counter these threats, Europe must rapidly enhance its defense capabilities. Current NATO spending targets of 2% of GDP are insufficient, and discussions are underway to raise them to 3%. However, achieving true strategic autonomy requires investment in critical assets like satellite systems, intelligence, and heavy transport—capabilities beyond the reach of individual nations. While Germany could potentially allocate €1 trillion for defense, most European countries lack such fiscal capacity. The EU’s recent €150 billion SAFE mechanism helps but is insufficient for the required investment scale.

Two promising proposals are gaining traction: a European Rearmament Bank, modeled after the EBRD, to provide low-cost loans for defense projects, and a European Defense Mechanism, inspired by the ESM, to directly purchase equipment on behalf of governments. Both could be implemented swiftly, as past financial institutions were established in mere months. While resistance may arise from nations protective of their defense industries or wary of shared debt, the benefits—a stronger, more unified European defense market and greater continental security—are undeniable. The time for decisive action is now. 🚀

Bears on the bridge, and Turkey’s “uncles”

Turkey finds itself navigating a complex web of geopolitical tensions, with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan carefully managing relations with the U.S. under Donald Trump, whom analysts liken to a bear on a bridge. Erdogan's strategy hinges on balancing alliances and conflicts, as Turkey's future stability and influence depend on its delicate diplomatic maneuvers. The situation is further complicated by instability in Venezuela, Iran's uprising, the Kurdish issue, and escalating tensions with Israel. Turkey's discomfort with shifting dynamics is evident in its potential alliance with Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, a move that could strain its NATO membership and test Article 5.

Turkey's discontent stems from the Greece-Cyprus-Israel agreement, which has U.S. backing, and its desire to maintain influence in regions like the Horn of Africa, where Israel's recognition of Somaliland challenges Turkey's interests. The uncertainty surrounding Trump's stance on NATO adds another layer of complexity, as his potential actions could reshape the alliance. Meanwhile, Turkey faces economic and geopolitical risks from developments in Venezuela and Iran, threatening its gold reserves, trade, and regional influence. As Turkey treads carefully, the outcome of its diplomatic and strategic decisions will significantly impact its future and regional stability. 🌍🐻

Stubb: US threats over Greenland could trigger "dangerous downward spiral"

The European Union has called an emergency meeting of member states following U.S. President Donald Trump's threat to impose new import tariffs on Finland and seven other countries, including key European nations and Nordic states. Trump's demand, made via social media, threatens a 10% tariff starting February 1, escalating to 25% by June 1 unless the U.S. is allowed to purchase Greenland. Finnish President Alexander Stubb responded firmly, emphasizing European unity, territorial integrity, and the importance of dialogue over pressure. Opposition leader Antti Lindtman called for an urgent EU summit to address the issue, while EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas warned that such disputes weaken the Western alliance and benefit adversaries like China and Russia.

Stubb convened an unusual Saturday meeting with Finland's Ministerial Committee on Foreign and Security Policy to discuss global and European developments. Meanwhile, Finnish business leaders urged companies to diversify markets and prepare for potential tariffs, expressing hope for a diplomatic resolution. The situation underscores growing tensions and the need for strategic cooperation among European nations. 🇪🇺🇺🇸

'Dangerous downward spiral': Europe hits back at Trump tariff threat over Greenland

European leaders have strongly condemned U.S. President Donald Trump's threat to impose tariffs on eight European countries, including Denmark, for opposing his plans to annex Greenland. In a joint statement, Britain, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden warned that such tariff threats undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral. The European Council has announced an extraordinary summit to address the situation, with potential retaliatory measures, including €93 billion in tariffs or restrictions on American companies, being considered. Trump's ultimatum has drawn criticism from European leaders, including NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, who questioned the viability of recent trade agreements under these circumstances. Protests in Greenland and Denmark have also voiced opposition to Trump's ambitions, with demonstrators calling for the U.S. to withdraw. The escalating tensions highlight the potential for a broader trade war, with European leaders vowing to defend their interests and the stability of the transatlantic alliance. 🌍💥

Internet traffic is down again in Iran

In response to widespread anti-regime protests, Iran's government imposed a near-total internet blackout that lasted 238 hours. On Sunday, internet access briefly resumed on a limited scale, with some users able to access Google services, though many other platforms remained inaccessible. Reports also emerged that the head of Iran's second-largest mobile operator was dismissed for failing to comply with orders to shut down the internet. However, by late Sunday, internet traffic was once again completely throttled, leaving the country largely disconnected. The crackdown followed days of escalating protests, with the regime intensifying its efforts to suppress dissent. 🌐🔌

Germany sees surge in young Ukrainian refugees as Kyiv eases travel ban

Germany is experiencing a significant influx of young Ukrainian refugees following Kyiv's decision to ease travel restrictions. This policy shift has led to a notable increase in the number of Ukrainians, particularly young people, seeking refuge in Germany. The easing of travel bans has opened new pathways for those fleeing the ongoing conflict, prompting a surge in arrivals. This development underscores the ongoing humanitarian impact of the war in Ukraine and the continued need for international support and solidarity. 🌍💔

A dispatch from the future

In a pivotal meeting on January 14, 2026, Greenland's Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt faced the stark reality of U.S. President Donald Trump's intentions toward Greenland. The Trump administration, led by Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, had made it clear that they sought to annex the territory, despite Denmark and Greenland's diplomatic efforts to avert escalation. Earlier attempts to negotiate, including offers to station U.S. troops and grant mineral rights, had been rebuffed, leaving Denmark and Greenland in a precarious position.

The situation worsened when the U.S. National Security Strategy of late 2025 introduced the "Donroe Doctrine," asserting dominance over the Western Hemisphere. This doctrine was put into action with a military strike on Venezuela in early 2026, signaling that Greenland was next on Trump's agenda. Despite Europe's symbolic military support and hopes for restraint from U.S. Congress and the military, Trump's aggressive rhetoric and actions prevailed. A Russian submarine's appearance near Greenland provided the pretext for the U.S. to "secure" the island, effectively taking control of its security and economy.

The fallout from this move shattered NATO's mutual defense clause, exposing its fragility. While Europe called for sanctions and military base closures, little action was taken due to ongoing conflicts and economic dependencies. The crisis deepened political divisions in Europe, fueling right-wing populism and weakening the continent's unity. In hindsight, many questioned why Europe allowed its security to be undermined over an island of minimal strategic importance, ultimately realizing that their belief in a rules-based order was not enough to defend it against overwhelming force. 🌍💥

Live: EU leaders to hold extraordinary summit on Trump’s Greenland tariffs ‘in coming days’

EU leaders are set to convene an emergency summit in response to U.S. President Donald Trump's recent tariff threat against eight European nations that oppose American control of Greenland. European Council President Antonio Costa announced the meeting, signaling the urgency of the situation. The Financial Times reported that the EU is considering retaliatory tariffs worth €93 billion against the U.S. as tensions escalate.

Yesterday, Trump imposed a 10% tariff on key European countries, including France, the UK, and Denmark, over the Greenland dispute. European leaders have expressed strong opposition, with French President Emmanuel Macron calling the move "unacceptable" and warning that it could trigger a dangerous economic spiral. The EU is now poised to take decisive action to protect its interests and counter what it views as an aggressive trade move by the U.S. 🌍💥

European leaders denounce Trump's tariff threats over Greenland

Tensions between the U.S. and Europe have escalated sharply following President Donald Trump's aggressive push to claim Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark. His recent threats to impose tariffs on eight European countries—Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Finland—have sparked outrage and concern across the continent. These tariffs, set to increase from 10% to 25% if no deal is reached for the "complete and total purchase of Greenland," have been condemned as a dangerous and counterproductive move.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who maintains a good relationship with Trump, urged him to reconsider, calling the tariffs a "mistake" during a recent conversation. However, she also acknowledged a "problem of understanding and communication" between Europe and the U.S. and suggested that NATO should play a more active role in resolving the crisis. European leaders, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, have strongly criticized Trump's actions, with Macron advocating for the EU to deploy its "anti-coercion instrument" in response.

The EU, which recently secured a deal to reduce tariffs on most exports to the U.S., held an emergency meeting of ambassadors to address the escalating situation. The affected countries issued a joint statement condemning the tariff threats as harmful to transatlantic relations and vowing to remain united in their response. Meanwhile, protests erupted in Greenland, Denmark, and other Danish cities, with thousands rallying against the prospect of U.S. annexation. Denmark's Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen announced plans to visit key NATO allies to discuss Arctic security, while French and Dutch officials warned of the potential economic fallout for the U.S. if the tariffs proceed. The crisis underscores deepening divisions and the urgent need for diplomatic resolution. 🌍💥

Tokyo stock market falls after US move on Greenland

US President Donald Trump announced this weekend that the United States would impose punitive tariffs on several European countries, including Sweden, until the U.S. is permitted to purchase Greenland. The news sent shockwaves through global markets, with the Tokyo Stock Exchange experiencing significant declines upon reopening for trading on Monday. The Nikkei 225 and the broader Topix indices both fell, with the Nikkei 225 dropping 1.4% and the Topix declining just under 1.0% within the first two hours of trading. The announcement has raised concerns about potential economic repercussions and geopolitical tensions. 🌍📉

EU calls for summit on Greenland crisis as it considers retaliatory tariffs on US

European leaders are preparing to address escalating trade tensions with the United States, with a critical summit scheduled for next Thursday. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson of Sweden emphasized the importance of defending fundamental values, expressing hope for broad agreement among EU members. European Council President António Costa reiterated that the proposed U.S. tariffs are incompatible with the EU-US trade agreement and could severely strain transatlantic relations.

In response to the looming tariffs, which are set to take effect on February 1 and rise to 25% by June 1, EU leaders are finalizing a retaliatory strategy. This strategy includes potential tariffs on American goods such as cars, aircraft, whiskey, machinery, chemicals, medical devices, and agricultural products, with a total value of €93 billion. The EU is also considering measures to restrict U.S. companies' access to the EU's internal market. Diplomatic sources describe the situation as tense, with one EU diplomat characterizing Trump's approach as "pure mafia methods."

The EU is working to avoid deepening divisions within NATO, which could jeopardize European security. The retaliatory measures, initially drafted last year, were postponed but could now be implemented as early as February 6 if the U.S. tariffs proceed. European leaders aim to present a unified front during discussions with Trump at the World Economic Forum in Davos next week. 🇪🇺💼

EU to hold emergency leaders’ summit over Trump’s Greenland threats

The European Union is preparing for an urgent summit to address U.S. President Donald Trump's threats to seize Greenland and impose tariffs on EU countries that oppose him. European Council President António Costa announced that the leaders of the EU's 27 member states will convene in person in the coming days, with the meeting tentatively scheduled for Thursday, January 22. This extraordinary gathering follows a discussion among EU ambassadors in Brussels, where they deliberated on Trump's recent statements. The summit aims to coordinate a unified EU response to the escalating tensions and potential economic repercussions. 🌍🇪🇺

Trump tariff threats over Greenland prompt calls for unprecedented EU counter-measures

Tensions escalate as U.S. President Donald Trump threatens to impose tariffs on European nations opposing his plans to acquire Greenland. In response, French President Emmanuel Macron is poised to request the EU activate its unprecedented "anti-coercion" measure, a powerful trade tool dubbed the "bazooka," to counter Trump's actions. The EU has called an emergency meeting of its ambassadors to address the situation, with concerns growing over the potential impact on transatlantic relations.

Trump announced plans to impose a 10% tariff on eight European countries, including Denmark, France, Germany, and the UK, escalating to 25% by June 1 unless a deal is reached for the U.S. to purchase Greenland. The targeted nations, in solidarity with Denmark, have condemned the tariffs, emphasizing their commitment to Arctic security and NATO. EU leaders warn that such measures could trigger a dangerous downward spiral, underscoring the need for unity and coordinated action to uphold European sovereignty. The situation highlights the fragility of international relations amid rising geopolitical tensions. 🌍⚔️

PM: Hellenic Navy’s first FDI frigate a ‘historic milestone’

Greece has marked a significant milestone in its defense capabilities with the official integration of its first FDI Belharra frigate into the Hellenic Navy. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis highlighted this achievement in his weekly Sunday post, emphasizing that the new frigate strengthens Greece's deterrent power and ensures its security is unquestionable. He reaffirmed Greece's role as a stabilizing force in the eastern Mediterranean, committed to fostering good neighborly relations while enhancing its military capabilities. The addition of this advanced, French-made frigate is the first of four FDI-class vessels expected to join the fleet within the next 18 months, further bolstering Greece's defense resources and human capital. 🚢🇬🇷

Ceasefire declared after Kurdish forces defeated in Syria

In a significant development, Syria's Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa has announced that Kurdish forces are now part of the Syrian army and has called for Kurdish groups to hand over control of areas in Dayr al-Zawr (Deir Ezzor) and Raqqa. This move follows a deal reached with SDF commander Mazloum Abdi, though their formal meeting was postponed due to weather conditions. Abdi confirmed remotely that he approved the agreement, stating that Kurdish forces will withdraw from Dayr al-Zawr and Raqqa to Hasakeh to prevent further conflict.

Al-Sharaa's statements come amid reported military successes by the Syrian army, which has regained control of areas previously held by Kurdish forces for over a decade. The Syrian army also captured the military airport in al-Tabqa, a strategic location previously controlled by the SDF. The ceasefire announcement coincides with al-Sharaa's claim that Damascus now controls all of Syria.

The agreement, reportedly consisting of 14 points, includes the integration of the SDF and Kurdish security forces into Syria's defense and interior ministries. Kurds are also expected to hand over administrative control of Dayr al-Zawr and Raqqa. This deal was brokered with the help of US envoy Tom Barrack, who met with Abdi in Erbil, Iraq. Barrack described the agreement as a crucial turning point, emphasizing a shift from division to partnership in Syria. 🇸🇾🤝

Hostages freed from high-security prison in Guatemala

In Guatemala, a violent confrontation erupted after prison authorities revoked privileges from incarcerated gang leaders, sparking a wave of retaliation. Early Sunday, riot police stormed the Renovación prison in Escuintla, about 80 kilometers from Guatemala City, where several drug cartel leaders are held. Inmates briefly took control of the facility, seizing several prison guards as hostages. The situation was quickly resolved, and the hostages were safely evacuated. Interior Minister Marco Antonio Villeda had earlier confirmed that nine individuals were taken hostage at Renovación, with additional hostages reported at two other prisons.

Following the prison unrest, gangs retaliated by targeting police officers in the capital, resulting in at least seven deaths. The attacks underscored the volatile relationship between law enforcement and criminal organizations in the region. The government's decision to strip privileges from gang leaders appears to have triggered a dangerous escalation, highlighting the ongoing challenges of maintaining security and order in Guatemala. 🚨🔫

Center left wins Portugal presidential election first round, setting up showdown with far right

In a surprising turn of events, António José Seguro, the former leader of Portugal’s Socialist Party, secured a narrow victory in the first round of the country’s presidential election. With just over 31% of the votes, Seguro outperformed André Ventura, the leader of the far-right Chega party, who had been leading in pre-election polls. Since no candidate achieved an absolute majority, a runoff election between Seguro and Ventura is scheduled for February 8. This unexpected outcome has reshaped the political landscape in Portugal, with Seguro now poised to challenge Ventura’s far-right influence in the upcoming runoff. 🇵🇹🗳️

‘Europe will not be blackmailed:’ Denmark embraces allies’ support on Greenland

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has expressed gratitude for the strong support Denmark and Greenland are receiving from European allies in response to U.S. President Donald Trump's threats of new tariffs aimed at gaining control of Greenland. Frederiksen emphasized that Europe stands united against such coercive tactics, stating, "Europe will not be blackmailed." She highlighted ongoing discussions with key allies, including the U.K., France, and Germany, to address the situation. The Danish government's firm stance underscores the importance of international solidarity in safeguarding sovereignty and territorial integrity. 🌍🤝

Orpo: Trump's tariff threat "based on incorrect conclusions"

Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has strongly condemned U.S. President Donald Trump's recent tariff threat, calling it "a serious matter" and based on incorrect conclusions. Orpo, who was informed of the threat while cross-country skiing, emphasized that while Finland's relations with the U.S. are strong, certain actions are unacceptable. He stressed the need for concrete actions and clear boundaries to prevent the threat from materializing, highlighting the importance of communication with European colleagues and preparing for potential trade policy countermeasures.

Orpo expressed hope for a swift resolution to the Greenland situation, warning that failure to do so within the next two weeks could lead to a trade war. He also announced that the Finnish government will update its foreign and security policy report, aiming to complete the work by the end of the spring parliamentary session. The report will be considered by Parliament, which is set to conclude its session in late June. Orpo's remarks underscore Finland's commitment to defending its interests and maintaining strong European solidarity in the face of potential trade disruptions. 🇫🇮🤝