In a bold escalation of his long-standing quest for Greenland, President Donald Trump has declared a 10% tariff on imports from eight European nations supporting Denmark’s control over the territory. The move, announced on Truth Social, targets Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland, with tariffs set to rise to 25% by June 2026 until a full acquisition deal is reached.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer swiftly condemned the tariffs on X, reaffirming Greenland’s status as part of the Danish realm and emphasizing that its future lies with Greenlanders and Denmark. Starmer highlighted the critical role of Arctic security for NATO allies, urging closer cooperation against Russian threats. ‘Imposing tariffs for the security of NATO allies is completely wrong,’ he stated, vowing to raise the issue directly with the US government.
The Netherlands’ Foreign Minister David van Weel echoed this sentiment, noting the tariffs while stressing that military exercises in Greenland aim to bolster Arctic security. He affirmed close coordination with the EU Commission and partners on a response.
Trump justified the aggressive stance by claiming years of US subsidies to these nations without reciprocation. He painted a dire picture of global security, alleging China and Russia covet Greenland while Denmark relies on outdated defenses like dog sleds. ‘Only America, under President Trump, can play this game and win big,’ he boasted, insisting the island is vital for national security, especially with advanced weapons systems and the ‘Golden Dome’ defense program requiring its inclusion for full efficacy.
This tariff salvo revives Trump’s 2019 push to buy Greenland, rejected by Denmark, now amplified amid heightened geopolitical tensions in the Arctic. European leaders’ unified backlash signals potential transatlantic rifts, as NATO cohesion hangs in the balance. With talks offered but demands firm, the showdown could reshape alliances and trade dynamics for years.