rki.news
Source: Xinhua
WASHINGTON, Jan. 26 – Tensions have risen in Europe following U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks questioning NATO allies’ contributions in Afghanistan and hinting at military action over Greenland.
In a Davos interview, Trump downplayed allied troop commitments, saying they “stayed a little back, a little off the front lines,” drawing sharp criticism from European leaders. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the remarks “insulting and frankly appalling,” while Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk noted his country also lost troops in Afghanistan.
The controversy follows Trump’s earlier statements suggesting military options to acquire Greenland, a self-governing Danish territory. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stressed that sovereignty cannot be negotiated. Critics said such threats could violate international treaties, including the UN Charter and NATO obligations.
Trump later softened his stance after condemnation from EU leaders. U.S. officials, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, emphasized Greenland’s strategic importance for national security and missile defense. Experts noted the island’s military bases and emerging Arctic routes make it a critical location, though treaty obligations already provide protection.
French President Emmanuel Macron said U.S. pressure and tariffs risked weakening Europe, while EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas warned transatlantic relations had suffered a significant blow. Former European Council President Charles Michel described the traditional partnership as “dead.”
The episode highlights the fragility of U.S.-Europe relations and the diplomatic sensitivity surrounding Arctic security, Greenland’s sovereignty, and the evolving geopolitical landscape in the region.