European leaders met Monday to discuss defense against Russia, but the focus shifted to the U.S.

Donald Trump is dominating headlines with trade wars and threats, including against China, Mexico, Canada, and the EU.

Trump has also refused to rule out military action to seize Greenland, part of Denmark.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned that the EU would respond firmly if Trump imposes tariffs.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk called the potential trade war “totally unnecessary and stupid.”

EU leaders reaffirmed their commitment to protecting Greenland.

Von der Leyen emphasized the importance of U.S.-EU relations but suggested increasing defense spending to appease Trump.

Some EU nations want defense spending excluded from deficit limits, and Germany signaled flexibility on financing.

However, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz rejected joint EU debt for defense projects.

Tusk noted Scholz was more supportive of EU funding for specific defense initiatives like the Polish-Greek air defense shield.

European Council President António Costa reaffirmed Denmark’s sovereignty over Greenland.

NATO chief Mark Rutte suggested stationing NATO troops in Greenland to counter U.S. pressure.

Trump’s reasons for wanting Greenland range from expansion to security concerns, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio citing China, Politico has reported.

Rutte agreed that Arctic security is a priority and called for NATO allies to act collectively.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen echoed support for increased cooperation in the Arctic.

Any NATO forces in Greenland would join the longstanding U.S. military presence there, approved by Denmark.

Written by B.C. Begley