The establishment of tariffs and the ensuing discussion inspire and motivate opponents, emphasized Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs in a post on social media, expressing his opinion on the ongoing U.S. discussion regarding Greenland.
He explained that the issues of strengthening Arctic security are currently being addressed both at NATO level and in bilateral dialogue between Denmark and the United States, as well as with the participation of other Arctic countries while adhering to the principles of international law.
The President emphasized that Denmark is a reliable NATO ally and there should be no doubt about its ability, together with its alliance partners, to protect Greenland from potential threats from Russia or China, should they arise in the future.
"I have previously stated that Denmark is a strong democracy, a member of the European Union, and a reliable NATO ally. Greenland is an integral part of Denmark," Rinkēvičs stated.
Understanding the security interests of the United States, the president expressed hope that both of Latvia's allies would be able to find a mutually acceptable solution. He also emphasized that Latvia supports the continuation of direct dialogue and the statement made on Sunday by Denmark, Finland, Norway, the Netherlands, France, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Sweden regarding Greenland.
"The establishment of tariffs and the discussion surrounding it do not benefit anyone in the Euro-Atlantic space, but they inspire and motivate our opponents," the president emphasized.
As reported, in response to threats from U.S. President Donald Trump to impose tariffs on several EU countries opposing Washington's plans to take control of Greenland, the EU is considering imposing tariffs on imports from the U.S. amounting to €93 billion or restricting access for American companies to the EU market, the Financial Times reported, citing unofficial remarks from EU officials.
Trump previously stated that due to disagreements over Greenland, as of February 1, imports from eight EU countries will be subject to a 10% customs duty.
The new tariffs will affect all imports from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands. If an agreement on the sale of Greenland to the U.S. is not reached, this tariff will increase to 25% starting in June.
In light of Trump's threats to impose tariffs, European Council President António Costa announced on Sunday the convening of an extraordinary EU summit, which is to take place in the coming days.
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