US President Donald Trump has threatened tariffs on multiple European nations in an escalation of his efforts to acquire Greenland. The tariffs, ranging from 10% to 25%, would be imposed on goods sent to the United States from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Finland, according to a post on Mr. Trump’s Truth Social network.
Tariff Threats and Timeline
Beginning February 1, the countries listed would be subject to a 10% tariff on all goods entering the US. Mr. Trump stated the tariff would increase to 25% on June 1, 2026, remaining in effect “until such time as a Deal is reached for the Complete and Total purchase of Greenland.”
Mr. Trump characterized the situation as a “dangerous game” and asserted the need for “strong measures” to ensure “Global Peace and Security.”
International Response
European Council President Antonio Costa affirmed the EU’s commitment to defending international law, stating the bloc is coordinating a response to the threats. “The European Union will always be very firm in defending international law,” he said.
French President Emmanuel Macron deemed the threat over Greenland “unacceptable” and pledged a coordinated European response if confirmed. “No intimidation nor threat will influence us,” Mr. Macron stated on X.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson rejected the threats, asserting, “We won’t let ourselves be intimidated.” He emphasized that the matter is a European issue, with decisions regarding Greenland resting solely with Denmark and Greenland itself.
Labour TD George Lawlor warned the EU against yielding to “bullying” and “extortion,” urging Ireland and the EU to prepare for a potential breakdown in relations with the United States.
Protests in Greenland and Denmark
Thousands of people demonstrated in both Greenland and Denmark against Mr. Trump’s plans. In Greenland, protesters, including Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen, chanted slogans and traditional Inuit songs, some wearing caps with the slogan “Make America Go Away.”
A bipartisan delegation from the US Congress visited Copenhagen during the protests, expressing opposition to the Trump administration’s threats.
Greenland’s Minister for Business and Energy Naaja Nathanielsen stated that Greenlanders “do not want to be American” and have a “red line” against occupation.
NATO and Security Concerns
US Democratic Senator Chris Coons, speaking in Copenhagen with the Congressional delegation, insisted there was no security threat to Greenland. This came in response to claims from Mr. Trump’s advisor Stephen Miller that Denmark was unable to defend its Arctic territory.
European NATO members are deploying troops to Greenland for a military exercise to demonstrate their commitment to defending their sovereignty. The United States has been invited to participate in the exercise.
According to a January 2025 poll, 85% of Greenlanders oppose joining the United States, with only 6% in favor.
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