European leaders have strongly condemned U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent threat to impose tariffs over their opposition to his plans for Greenland, warning that such actions could strain long-standing transatlantic ties.
Denmark, of which Greenland is an autonomous territory, joined Britain, France, Germany, Finland, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden in a joint statement emphasizing that they “stand united” against the threat of tariffs of up to 25 percent unless Greenland is ceded to the United States. The statement added that such economic threats “undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral.”
Trump has repeatedly expressed interest in Greenland, framing the potential acquisition as a matter of U.S. national security. He and his aides have argued that Denmark, despite being a NATO ally, would be unable to defend Greenland in the event of a Russian or Chinese incursion. His rhetoric has intensified following recent U.S. military actions in Venezuela.
In response, Denmark and several European NATO allies recently deployed small numbers of troops to Greenland for military exercises, with the United States invited to participate. Some German forces departed on Sunday after completing reconnaissance missions.
Public opposition has been strong as well. On Saturday, thousands in Greenland and Denmark protested against U.S. control of the island, with slogans like “Make America Go Away” appearing on hats, echoing and subverting Trump’s “Make America Great Again” slogan.
Trump escalated the situation on social media, warning that imports from the eight European nations would face a 10 percent tariff starting February 1, rising to 25 percent from June 1 “until such time as a Deal is reached for the Complete and Total purchase of Greenland.”
The dispute has highlighted rising tensions between the U.S. and its European allies, exposing vulnerabilities in long-standing partnerships while underscoring Greenland’s strategic significance in the Arctic.
