President Trump announced a 10% tariff on imports from eight European countries in retaliation for opposing U.S. control of Greenland, escalating tensions with NATO allies.
NUUK, Greenland – President Donald Trump declared Saturday that the United States will impose a 10% tariff on goods from eight European nations starting in February. This move targets Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland—all NATO members opposing U.S. efforts to acquire Greenland.
In a social media post, Trump stated the tariff would escalate to 25% by June 1 unless the U.S. secures "the Complete and Total purchase of Greenland." He cited European resistance to his proposal, including recent diplomatic visits to Greenland by British, Dutch, and Finnish officials.
Security Claims Meet Widespread Resistance
Trump argues Greenland is essential for America's "Golden Dome" missile defense system and claims Russia or China could seize the territory. These assertions contrast sharply with assessments from regional military leaders. Major General Søren Andersen, head of Denmark's Joint Arctic Command, told The Associated Press: "There are no current security threats to Greenland. I haven't seen any Chinese or Russian combat vessels here in 2½ years."
Protests Sweep Copenhagen
Thousands rallied in Denmark's capital Saturday supporting Greenland's self-governance. Demonstrators carried signs reading "Greenland is not for sale" and "Make America Smart Again" amid near-freezing temperatures. Elise Riechie, a protester holding Greenlandic and Danish flags, stated: "There are many small countries. None of them are for sale."
A bipartisan U.S. congressional delegation attempted damage control in Copenhagen. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) acknowledged: "The current rhetoric is causing concern across the Danish kingdom. I hope our allies don't abandon their faith in the American people."
Legal and Alliance Uncertainties
Legal experts question Trump's authority to impose the tariffs. Potential reliance on economic emergency powers faces an ongoing Supreme Court challenge. The move strains NATO at a critical time—the alliance recently held Arctic security talks in Greenland with U.S. participation.
General Andersen emphasized continued military cooperation, noting U.S. involvement in upcoming NATO exercises: "This isn't about signaling. It's about training military units together." When asked about potential U.S. aggression, he confirmed Danish law requires soldiers to defend against any attack, including from allies.
Diplomatic Fallout
The tariffs follow failed talks between Danish/Greenlandic officials and Vice President JD Vance. While Denmark increases its military presence in Greenland with NATO partners, Senator Coons warned: "If we cause Danes to question our alliance, why would any country believe in our word?"
The dispute highlights escalating tensions between the U.S. and European partners over sovereignty, trade, and Arctic security, with no resolution in sight.
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