Trump Threatens Tariffs on European Allies Over Greenland Acquisition Push

Trump Announces Tariff Plan for Greenland Acquisition

Former US President Donald Trump announced on Friday, January 16, 2026, and Saturday, January 17, 2026, that he would impose tariffs on countries that do not support his efforts to acquire Greenland. The tariffs, initially set at 10%, are slated to take effect on February 1, 2026, and would increase to 25% by June 1, 2026, if a deal for the 'Complete and Total purchase of Greenland' is not reached. Trump cited national security concerns as the primary driver for his push to acquire the autonomous Danish territory.

Targeted Nations and European Response

The proposed tariffs would apply to a list of eight European nations, all members of NATO:

• Denmark
• Norway
• Sweden
• France
• Germany
• The United Kingdom
• The Netherlands
• Finland

European leaders have swiftly condemned the threats. French President Emmanuel Macron stated that the tariff threats are 'unacceptable' and that European nations would respond in a 'united and coordinated manner'. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson echoed this sentiment, declaring, 'We won't let ourselves be intimidated.'

Denmark's Firm Stance and US Congressional Opposition

Denmark, which governs Greenland as an autonomous territory, has consistently rejected any notion of selling the island. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen expressed 'surprise' at Trump's announcement, emphasizing that the increased military presence in Greenland, which Trump referenced, is intended to enhance Arctic security. Both Greenlandic and Danish authorities have maintained that Greenland is 'not for sale' and that any acquisition would infringe upon its sovereignty. Concurrently, a bipartisan delegation of US lawmakers visited Copenhagen to reassure Danish and Greenlandic officials. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) stated that 'Greenland needs to be viewed as our ally, not as an asset,' while Senator Chris Coons (D-Delaware) questioned the exaggerated security risks posed by China and Russia in the region.

Historical Context and Future Implications

The United States has a history of attempting to acquire Greenland, with previous discussions dating back to the 19th century. However, the current threats mark a significant escalation in diplomatic tensions between the US and its European allies. The situation is seen by some as a potential breaking point in the US-Europe relationship, particularly within the NATO alliance.