U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened 10 per cent tariffs rising to 25 per cent on imports from eight NATO allies unless they support a deal to buy Greenland from Denmark.
The measures target Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, Netherlands, and Finland, starting 1 February. Trump posted on Truth Social that duties would last “until such time as a Deal is reached for the Complete and Total purchase of Greenland” to block Russia and China in the Arctic.
European leaders condemned the ultimatum. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer deemed it “completely wrong,” arguing tariffs punish NATO solidarity. French President Emmanuel Macron called it “unacceptable,” vowing Europeans “will respond in a united and coordinated manner should they be confirmed.”
The EU pledged “full solidarity with Denmark and the people of Greenland” after failed talks last week with U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen called the threat a surprise post a “constructive meeting.” An EU emergency ambassadors’ meeting convenes at 16:00 GMT today.
Finnish President Alexander Stubb urged dialogue over pressure. “Among allies, issues are best resolved through discussion, not through pressure,” he said. “European countries stand united. We emphasize the principles of territorial integrity and sovereignty. We support Denmark and Greenland.”
Protests erupted in Nuuk and Denmark yesterday, with crowds declaring “Greenland is not for sale.” Polls show most Greenlanders reject U.S. control despite mineral riches. The levies would add to existing 15 per cent EU and 10 per cent UK tariffs, risking trade war escalation.
China and Russia dismissed Trump’s security claims as a pretext for gain.