Trump's Greenland Push Sparks EU Industry Backlash

German businesses are unhappy about U.S. President Donald Trump's plan to use tariffs to pressure Denmark into selling Greenland. This move could escalate the trade war between the U.S. and Europe.

Key Points

• Trump's Strategy: Increase tariffs on European goods until Denmark agrees to sell Greenland.
• Geopolitical Importance: Greenland's location makes it a strategic asset.
• EU's Response: The European Union is set to vote on cutting some tariffs, but Trump's actions could alter this.

Expert Opinions

• Bertram Kawlath, leader of a major German engineering group, warns that giving in to Trump's demands would only encourage further requests. He advocates for the EU to stand firm.
• Volker Treier agrees, stating that mixing politics and economics in this manner is unacceptable.
• Both experts urge the EU to use its protective tools against such pressure, which could impact recent deals with the U.S. and Britain.

Diverging Views

• Moritz Schularik, head of an economic research group, believes the tariffs won't significantly harm Germany. He advises the EU to remain strong and resist Trump's pressure.