U.S. attempt to seize Greenland could hurt trade with the EU, French finance minister says

Core Viewpoint - The potential U.S. annexation of Greenland could severely impact trade relations with the European Union, leading to possible tariffs or economic sanctions and the risk of a trade war [1][6]. Group 1: U.S. Actions and Statements - U.S. President Donald Trump has intensified discussions about annexing Greenland, suggesting that force could be an option if necessary [1]. - Trump claims that acquiring Greenland is essential for national security, aiming to prevent rivals from accessing emerging trade routes and critical mineral resources [5]. Group 2: European Response - French Finance Minister Roland Lescure warned that U.S. actions towards Greenland could damage economic ties with Europe, emphasizing that Greenland is a sovereign part of Denmark, which is an EU member [2]. - Lescure indicated that if the U.S. were to invade Greenland, it would create a "totally new world," necessitating a significant adjustment in EU-U.S. relations [4]. Group 3: Economic Implications - Analysts suggest that significant economic pressure from the U.S. on Denmark could provoke a strong response from the EU, potentially leading to a trade war [6]. - The geopolitical strategist Dan Alamariu noted that such tensions would likely unsettle markets and raise questions about NATO's stability, although a breakup is not anticipated [7]. Group 4: Military and Political Developments - European troops have arrived in Greenland for a military exercise, signaling a collaborative effort among allies rather than a unilateral U.S. initiative [8]. - European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen affirmed the EU's commitment to supporting Greenland politically, economically, and in terms of security [9].