EU Weak Hand as Trump Seizes Maduro and Eyes Greenland

Published: 07 January 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

The EU Weak Hand is becoming increasingly evident as Trump escalates actions in Venezuela and Greenland. European leaders faced a difficult challenge after the US raid on Caracas, which included bombers, helicopters, and special forces seizing President Nicolás Maduro. The EU’s public statements focused on consumer rights and travel protections rather than condemning the serious breach of international law, exposing its EU Weak Hand in global diplomacy. Analysts warn that such caution risks undermining Europe’s credibility in defending liberal democracy and multilateral norms.

The raid on Venezuela prompted varied responses among European capitals. France’s Emmanuel Macron offered no sympathy for Maduro, while Germany’s Friedrich Merz described the legality of the operation as complex. Italy’s Giorgia Meloni framed the action as legitimate self-defence, whereas European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reiterated the EU was “following the situation closely.” Only Spain’s Pedro Sánchez openly rejected an intervention violating international law, emphasizing adherence to global legal standards. This cautious approach reflects the EU Weak Hand and the difficulty of challenging a powerful ally like the US.

Meanwhile, Greenland has prompted a firmer stance. Denmark’s Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, clearly stated that the US has no right to annex Greenland, and Greenland’s leader Jens-Frederik Nielsen called Washington’s rhetoric “completely and utterly unacceptable.” France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, and the UK collectively backed Denmark, affirming that decisions about Greenland’s future belong solely to its people. Analysts note this shows Europe can act decisively when sovereignty is directly threatened, even if EU Weak Hand dynamics persist in other situations.

Populist European voices have criticised government hesitation. Marine Le Pen declared that state sovereignty is inviolable, and Jordan Bardella condemned any external forcible regime change. Scholars argue that continued deference to US pressure undermines Europe’s global standing, warning that weak responses encourage further unilateral actions. Europe’s challenge remains balancing transatlantic security, adherence to international law, and internal cohesion while asserting influence without provoking conflict.

In conclusion, the EU Weak Hand is most apparent in Venezuela but contrasts with the firmer response over Greenland, showing selective assertiveness. European credibility depends on translating words into decisive policies, maintaining sovereignty, and defending multilateral norms in an increasingly complex international environment.

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