标签： Europe

In a significant diplomatic development, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has expressed gratitude to UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer for his unwavering support during recent tensions over former US President Donald Trump’s threats to annex Greenland. The leaders met at Chequers, the British prime minister’s country estate, where they celebrated the successful resolution of what Frederiksen described as “a difficult time” for European solidarity.

The crisis emerged when Trump renewed calls for the United States to take control of Greenland, a Danish autonomous territory rich in strategic resources and geopolitical significance. This prompted immediate concern across NATO allies and triggered fears of potential trade wars. However, following intensive diplomatic efforts, including discussions between Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the World Economic Forum in Davos, the former president abandoned his threat to impose 10% import tariffs on eight countries, including the UK.

Prime Minister Starmer welcomed the de-escalation, noting that “the threat of tariffs against the United Kingdom was lifted” and emphasizing the importance of Arctic security for global stability. “Now we can start the hard yards of finding a way forward on security in the Arctic, which may seem remote but actually matters to all of us in terms of safety and security,” Starmer stated during his Hertfordshire visit.

The resolution emerged from what Downing Street characterized as “serious behind-the-scenes diplomacy,” with the UK maintaining constant communication with the US administration and coordinating closely with NATO leadership. The agreement includes developing a new framework for NATO’s role in enhancing Arctic security, though specific details remain limited.

Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper clarified that the agreement focuses on establishing an “Arctic sentry” initiative rather than addressing Greenland’s mineral resources. She emphasized that the climbdown resulted from the UK’s “determined diplomacy” and “very coordinated approach across allies,” despite Trump’s attempts to pressure the UK through criticism of the Chagos Islands agreement with Mauritius.

The diplomatic victory highlights the effectiveness of what Frederiksen praised as the “British way” of diplomacy—pragmatic, fact-based, and principled. The Danish leader even referenced The Beatles, noting that sometimes nations need to “get by with a little help from our friends” in challenging situations.

BERLIN — In a significant diplomatic escalation, Germany has declared a Russian diplomat persona non grata following the arrest of a dual national suspected of conducting espionage operations for Russian intelligence. The German Foreign Ministry announced the expulsion on Thursday, stating unequivocally that espionage activities, particularly those masquerading under diplomatic cover, will not be tolerated on German soil.

The case centers on a German-Ukrainian woman apprehended in Berlin on Wednesday by federal prosecutors. Investigation documents reveal she maintained regular contact since late 2023 with an operative from Russia’s embassy who was identified as an intelligence officer. According to prosecutors, the suspect provided sensitive information related to military support for Ukraine, including details about defense industry facilities, experimental drone testing programs, and planned deliveries of unmanned aerial vehicles to Ukrainian forces.

Furthermore, the suspect allegedly facilitated her Russian contact’s infiltration of political events in Berlin using false identities, enabling intelligence gathering operations. The investigation has expanded to include two former German military employees, one recently retired officer, suspected of leaking classified information to the primary suspect. The Defense Ministry confirmed its active cooperation with the ongoing probe into these security breaches.

The Russian ambassador was formally summoned to receive notification of the diplomat’s expulsion, underscoring Germany’s firm response to what it characterizes as unacceptable intelligence operations exploiting diplomatic channels.

In a surprising diplomatic development, former U.S. President Donald Trump has declared the establishment of a “framework of a future deal” concerning Greenland during the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. The announcement came through his Truth Social platform on Wednesday, following discussions with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

This declaration follows weeks of heightened tensions after Trump threatened economic sanctions against eight close U.S. allies who opposed his controversial plans to acquire the semi-autonomous Danish territory. While Trump characterized the meeting with Rutte as “very productive,” the NATO leader clarified that Danish sovereignty over Greenland was not discussed during their conversation.

Both Danish and Greenlandic authorities have responded with firm statements reaffirming that sovereignty remains non-negotiable. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen emphasized that while Denmark remains open to discussions on “security, investments, economy,” the nation’s sovereignty is not subject to negotiation. This position was echoed by Aaja Chenmitz, one of Greenland’s two representatives in the Danish parliament, who asserted that “Nothing about us without us” regarding any negotiations affecting Greenland.

The diplomatic standoff appears to center on reports suggesting the potential transfer of sovereignty over specific areas of Greenland for U.S. military bases, similar to Britain’s sovereign base areas in Cyprus. U.K. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper expressed hope for trilateral discussions involving Denmark, Greenland, and the United States while emphasizing that Greenland’s sovereignty must be protected.

Strategic concerns driving U.S. interest include countering perceived threats from Chinese and Russian activities in the Arctic region and securing access to Greenland’s vast reserves of rare earth minerals, crucial for modern technologies. NATO allies have proposed alternative security arrangements, including an “Arctic Sentry” initiative modeled after the Baltic Sea surveillance mission, to address U.S. security concerns without compromising sovereignty.

The existing 1951 defense agreement between the U.S. and Denmark already permits unlimited U.S. military personnel in Greenland, with over 100 permanently stationed at the Pituffik base. Potential negotiations may focus on modernizing this agreement rather than transferring sovereignty, despite Trump’s previous insistence that “Countries have to have ownership and you defend ownership, you don’t defend leases.”

This development represents the latest chapter in Trump’s longstanding interest in acquiring Greenland, continuing a tradition of U.S. presidential interest in the strategically vital Arctic territory that dates back decades.

THE HAGUE, Netherlands — A potentially explosive geopolitical standoff between the United States and European allies over Greenland’s sovereignty was unexpectedly defused through the diplomatic intervention of NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, reinforcing his reputation as Washington’s most effective European interlocutor.

The crisis emerged when President Donald Trump publicly asserted America’s claim to ‘complete ownership’ of Greenland, threatening punitive tariffs against eight European nations to pressure Denmark over control of the strategically vital Arctic territory. Even after Trump retracted threats of military action during his Davos address, the diplomatic impasse persisted.

Rutte’s behind-the-scenes diplomacy proved decisive. Through a combination of personal charm and strategic flattery—including effusive text messages addressing Trump as ‘daddy’ and ‘Mr. President, dear Donald’—the Dutch politician engineered a dramatic reversal. Trump subsequently announced a new ‘framework for future Arctic security agreements’ developed in consultation with Rutte at the World Economic Forum.

Atlantic Council strategist Matthew Kroenig observed: ‘Secretary-General Rutte has emerged as Europe’s most effective diplomat and Trump whisperer. He possesses a unique ability to maintain constructive U.S. engagement with NATO through his distinctive communication style.’

Rutte’s approach reflects political skills honed during nearly thirteen years as Netherlands’ longest-serving prime minister, where he earned the nickname ‘Teflon Mark’ for surviving numerous scandals through pragmatic coalition-building and perceived indestructible cheerfulness. His resilience was demonstrated when he resigned over a childcare allowance scandal in 2021 only to win subsequent elections with increased support.

The NATO leadership appointment itself demonstrated Rutte’s exceptional diplomatic capabilities, having secured backing from traditionally skeptical leaders including Hungary’s Viktor Orbán and Turkey’s Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. His consensus-building skills are considered particularly valuable as NATO navigates Trump’s criticisms while coordinating support for Ukraine against Russian aggression.

Finnish President Alexander Stubb, another leader noted for Trump rapport, publicly endorsed Rutte’s crisis-resolution abilities during the Greenland tensions, telling Davos attendees the solution lay with the Dutch leader—prompting knowing laughter from audience members and panelists alike.

BRUSSELS — European Union leadership is assembling for an urgent summit on Thursday to redefine transatlantic diplomacy following two weeks of diplomatic turbulence triggered by U.S. President Donald Trump’s volatile statements regarding Greenland. Although Trump recently retracted his threats to forcibly acquire the Danish autonomous territory and impose tariffs on eight European nations, the episode has exposed profound concerns about American reliability.

The situation underscores deepening transatlantic tensions. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen openly questioned Trump’s trustworthiness this week, particularly regarding his apparent readiness to abandon a July EU-U.S. trade agreement designed to prevent further tariffs. ‘In politics as in business – a deal is a deal. When friends shake hands, it must mean something,’ von der Leyen told EU lawmakers, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic consistency.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen remains firm that her country’s sovereignty is not negotiable, despite Trump’s sudden reversal. The hastily arranged ‘framework’ agreement that prompted Trump’s change of position remains shrouded in secrecy, fueling ongoing skepticism among European officials.

Beyond Greenland, EU leaders are formulating a unified response to Trump’s proposed ‘Board of Peace,’ an initiative originally conceived to oversee Gaza ceasefire efforts but since expanded into a more ambitious international platform. Several European nations, including Norway, Slovenia, and Sweden, have declined participation. Trump responded characteristically, threatening French President Emmanuel Macron with ‘200% tariffs on his wines and champagnes’ should France refuse to join.

While Hungary has accepted the invitation and Germany has offered a noncommittal response, European Council President António Costa acknowledged that the Trump administration presents fundamental challenges to European security, principles, and prosperity. ‘All these three dimensions are being tested in the current moment of transatlantic relations,’ Costa stated ahead of the summit.

EU leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to international law, territorial integrity, and national sovereignty—principles they uphold in supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression and which Trump threatened regarding Greenland. The European Parliament has temporarily suspended ratification of the EU-US trade agreement in response to Trump’s tariff threats.

The Greenland episode has galvanized European leaders to reconsider their relationship with their traditionally strongest ally. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, a prominent advocate for strong transatlantic ties, warned that ‘appeasement is always a sign of weakness. Europe cannot afford to be weak — neither against its enemies, nor allies.’

Von der Leyen revealed that the European Commission is developing plans for substantial economic investments in Greenland to strengthen its economy and infrastructure, alongside crafting a new European security strategy. She emphasized that the EU stands ‘fully prepared to act, if necessary, with unity, urgency and determination’ should tariffs be imposed, characterizing the current juncture as a critical ‘crossroads’ for European foreign policy.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made an urgent journey to Davos, Switzerland, arriving Thursday for critical negotiations with U.S. President Donald Trump. The high-stakes meeting occurs amid significant diplomatic efforts to broker an end to the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

President Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, expressed measured optimism about reaching a comprehensive peace agreement, stating the negotiations have been narrowed to a single pivotal issue. While Witkoff refrained from specifying the exact nature of this remaining obstacle, diplomatic sources indicate recent discussions have centered on the future status of Ukraine’s Donbas region. The proposed solution involves establishing a demilitarized free economic zone in exchange for concrete security guarantees for Kyiv.

“I believe we’ve successfully condensed the complexities down to one core issue,” Witkoff commented before traveling to Moscow for parallel discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin. “We’ve explored various iterations of this issue, which indicates it is ultimately solvable. If both parties demonstrate genuine willingness to resolve this conflict, we will achieve a settlement.”

President Trump reinforced this sentiment, asserting that both President Putin and President Zelensky have reached a critical juncture where agreement is possible, adding bluntly that failure to capitalize on this opportunity would be unwise. This meeting follows Trump’s previous assessment that Putin appeared more prepared for compromise than Zelensky.

Zelensky’s attendance at the World Economic Forum came despite severe domestic challenges. The Ukrainian leader initially canceled his diplomatic travels to address a severe humanitarian crisis in Kyiv following targeted Russian strikes on energy infrastructure. These attacks have left extensive areas of the capital without heating, power, or water during extreme winter conditions, with thousands of residential buildings remaining without heat.

The negotiations face several substantial hurdles. Zelensky has previously outlined two major sticking points: the future of Donbas and control over the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, which Russian forces seized in March 2022. The Ukrainian president has conditionally offered a troop withdrawal from approximately 25% of the Donetsk region still under Ukrainian control, proposing a 40-kilometer pullback to establish an economic zone contingent on reciprocal Russian action.

While Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed continued discussions with American envoys regarding “the Ukrainian issue and related topics,” he declined to endorse Witkoff’s optimistic outlook. Additionally, President Putin has not yet decided on participating in Trump’s proposed Board of Peace concerning Gaza.

Zelensky had hoped to finalize two significant agreements with Trump at Davos covering security guarantees and economic prosperity, noting only “one mile left” to complete these documents. Although the prospect of formal signings during the Forum remains uncertain, Ukrainian National Security and Defense Council head Rustem Umerov confirmed substantive discussions with U.S. counterparts regarding economic development, post-war reconstruction, and security assurances.

COPENHAGEN, Denmark — Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has firmly asserted her nation’s sovereign rights over Greenland following controversial statements by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Arctic security arrangements. The diplomatic clarification comes after Trump’s abrupt withdrawal of threatened tariffs on eight European nations—a coercive measure initially deployed to pressure Denmark into relinquishing control over the semiautonomous Arctic territory.

President Trump had previously announced reaching a “framework of a future deal” on Arctic security with NATO leadership, specifically referencing the Golden Dome missile defense program—a $175 billion multilayered system that would potentially position U.S. weapons in space for the first time. However, Frederiksen stated she had received confirmation that no such agreement involving Danish sovereignty had been negotiated.

The Danish leader emphasized that while Arctic security represents a legitimate concern for all NATO members, and that discussions between the U.S. president and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte were “good and natural,” Denmark’s sovereignty remains non-negotiable. Frederiksen confirmed ongoing communications with Rutte surrounding his meeting with Trump in Davos.

NATO leadership has been made fully aware of Denmark’s position that while political, security, and economic matters remain open for discussion, national sovereignty cannot be compromised. Frederiksen reiterated that only Denmark and Greenland possess the authority to make determinations concerning their bilateral relations and territorial integrity.

The Prime Minister expressed Denmark’s willingness to engage in constructive dialogue regarding Arctic security enhancement, including potential collaboration on the Golden Dome program, provided such cooperation respects Danish territorial sovereignty. Meanwhile, NATO’s Rutte clarified in a Fox News interview that the future status of Greenland within the Danish kingdom had not been part of his discussions with Trump, noting the president’s primary focus remained on countering increased Chinese and Russian activity in the rapidly changing Arctic region.

DAVOS, Switzerland — President Donald Trump sought to redirect international attention toward his proposed ‘Board of Peace’ during the World Economic Forum on Thursday, following a week dominated by controversial remarks regarding Greenland. The initiative, initially conceived as a limited oversight body for the Gaza ceasefire, has expanded into a broader geopolitical project that has drawn both interest and skepticism from global powers.

According to a senior administration official speaking under anonymity, approximately 35 nations have committed to joining the board, with invitations extended to 60 countries. Egypt has publicly confirmed its participation, with President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi standing alongside Trump during Wednesday’s announcement. “We have a lot of great people that want to join,” Trump declared. “It’s going to be the most prestigious board ever formed.”

However, the ambitious proposal faces significant challenges. Several European nations, including France, Norway, and Sweden, have declined participation. French officials expressed support for Gaza peace efforts but raised concerns about the board potentially undermining the United Nations’ role in conflict resolution. Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob similarly cited reservations about the board’s broad mandate and potential impact on international order.

The membership roster remains uncertain, with key players including Russia, China, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the European Union yet to confirm their positions. Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Moscow is consulting with “strategic partners” before deciding. Notably, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reversed earlier criticism and agreed to join on Wednesday.

The board concept originated from Trump’s 20-point Gaza ceasefire plan, which received UN Security Council endorsement. However, invitation letters suggest the panel’s scope may extend beyond Gaza, aligning with Trump’s comments that the board “might” eventually replace some UN functions. “The UN hasn’t been very helpful,” Trump asserted, while acknowledging the world body’s potential.

The Gaza situation remains critical, with over two million Palestinians enduring humanitarian crisis despite the ceasefire. Central to lasting peace is Hamas’s disarmament—a condition the group has rejected and Israel considers non-negotiable. Trump warned that if Hamas fails to lay down weapons within weeks, “they’ll be blown away. Very quickly.”

The peace initiative unfolds against broader geopolitical tensions, including Trump’s recent threats toward Iran over its crackdown on protests and ongoing frustrations with the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Trump is scheduled to speak with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Thursday, though details remain unclear.

The transatlantic alliance, once heralded by President Joe Biden’s 2021 proclamation that ‘America is back,’ now faces unprecedented strain during Donald Trump’s second term. The diplomatic landscape has undergone radical transformation as Trump dismantles seven decades of European partnerships that facilitated German reunification and Soviet collapse.

Trump’s approach has deviated dramatically from conventional diplomacy, treating allied nations with confrontational rhetoric typically reserved for adversaries. His administration’s most shocking maneuver involved demanding Denmark cede control of Greenland, which Trump dismissively characterized as a substantial ‘piece of ice.’ This proposition risked fracturing NATO and represented a fundamental departure from established international norms.

The former president escalated tensions by publicly branding Denmark ‘ungrateful’ for American protection during World War II, despite the nation suffering the highest per-capita casualty rate among coalition forces in Afghanistan. Trump further undermined diplomatic decorum by revealing private communications with European leaders and delivering a provocative address at Davos where he suggested Europe required authoritarian leadership, remarking that ‘sometimes you need a dictator.’

This diplomatic rupture has compelled American allies to pursue independent strategies. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, having resisted Trump’s territorial ambitions, declared the rules-based international order an ‘illusion’ and independently negotiated trade agreements with China. Simultaneously, the European Union and Mercosur bloc finalized a free trade agreement specifically designed as countermeasure against Trump administration policies.

European leadership responded with unusually blunt criticism. French President Emmanuel Macron warned against ‘colonial adventures,’ while Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever described crossing ‘so many red lines’ that threatened national dignity. Even traditional conservative allies expressed alarm, with UK’s Nigel Farage labeling Trump’s Greenland approach the ‘biggest fracture’ in transatlantic relations in decades.

While Congressional Republicans largely maintain support for Trump’s unconventional methods, dissenting voices like Nebraska Representative Don Bacon condemn the Greenland threat as ‘absurd’ and ‘totally unnecessary.’ Democrats advocate for stronger transatlantic responses, with California Governor Gavin Newsom employing vivid dinosaur metaphors to characterize Trump’s diplomatic style.

Foreign policy experts suggest the damage may extend beyond repairability within a single presidential term. Former Biden deputy national security adviser Jon Finer observes that rational nations now perceive American reliability as limited to ‘four-year increments, if at all,’ fundamentally altering how global partners engage with the United States.