China and Russia will benefit from a rupture between U.S. and Europe: Ambassador Nicholas Burns

Summary

Fred Kempe and Nicholas Burns discuss the geopolitical fallout from U.S. pressure on Denmark over Greenland and related tariff threats. They argue Europe is undergoing shock therapy and may increase defense spending, while a rupture with the U.S. would mainly benefit China and Russia. Burns also says China's effort to deepen economic ties with Europe is unlikely in the short term because Europe views China's support for Russia's defense industry as existential.

• U.S. pressure over Greenland and tariffs has strained NATO and U.S.-Europe relations.
• Fred Kempe says Europe is being forced to provide more for its own defense, which could strengthen NATO.
• The EU may consider tariffs, sanctions, or anti-coercion measures against the U.S.
• Nicholas Burns says China and Russia would benefit from a U.S.-Europe rupture.
• Burns is skeptical China can make economic inroads with Europe in 2026.
• He cites China's role as a major microelectronics supplier to Russia's defense industrial base.
• Burns says Trump's withdrawal of the military force threat is not convincing to Europeans.