Europe Holds Line at Davos as CEOs Urge Calm Response to U.S.

European leaders struck a firm and coordinated tone at the World Economic Forum Davos, pushing back against pressure from the United States, while senior business leaders warned that emotional responses could worsen already strained transatlantic relations.

Political tensions have risen after Donald Trump Greenland proposal and signalled the possibility of U.S. tariffs on Europe. European officials said the remarks crossed political and diplomatic boundaries and required a clear response.

French President Emmanuel Macron said Europe should not accept a world governed by force or intimidation, adding that the European Union sovereignty must be defended.

• European leaders hold firm at Davos amid pressure from Donald Trump
• Emmanuel Macron and EU leaders stress sovereignty as US tensions rise
• CEOs at Davos warn Europe against emotional response to US trade threats

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed the message, arguing that the current geopolitical tensions Europe US demanded a more independent and resilient Europe, particularly in trade, security and industrial policy.

Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever said repeated efforts to appease Washington had weakened Europe’s position and that unity was essential. Sweden’s Deputy Prime Minister Ebba Busch also warned against soft diplomacy, saying Europe should be prepared to respond firmly if trade retaliation EU became necessary.

While political leaders stressed resolve, several CEOs and bankers attending Davos urged caution. Business executives said policy reactions appeared driven by anger rather than strategy and warned that escalation could hurt global business leaders Davos, investment, supply chains and long-term cooperation. They called for negotiation rather than public confrontation.

Trump’s comments and the threat of tariffs have unsettled European capitals already dealing with slow growth, energy concerns and continued support for Ukraine Europe. Officials said any response must balance defending European interests with preserving economic ties with the EU US trade relations.

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European Union officials are expected to discuss countermeasures, including trade options, at upcoming meetings. The debate in Davos highlighted the divide between political resolve and economic caution as Europe weighs firmness against the risks of escalation.