Washington DC [US], January 17 (ANI): US President Donald Trump on Saturday threatened to impose tariffs on Denmark and other European nations unless they agree to sell Greenland to the United States. In a post on Truth Social, Trump cited national security concerns, referencing China’s and Russia’s interest in the territory, and outlined escalating tariffs: 10% starting February 1, 2026, rising to 25% from June 1, 2026.
Trump warned that the tariffs would remain in place until a deal for the “complete and total purchase of Greenland” is reached. He stated, “Starting on February 1st, 2026, all of the above-mentioned countries—Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland—will be charged a 10% tariff on any and all goods sent to the United States of America. On June 1st, 2026, the tariff will be increased to 25%. This tariff will be due and payable until such time as a deal is reached for the complete and total purchase of Greenland.”
Trump has repeatedly emphasized Greenland’s strategic location and mineral resources, arguing that U.S. national security and global peace depend on the acquisition. He also criticized European military exercises in Greenland, calling them a “very dangerous situation for the safety, security, and survival of our planet.”
Denmark and Greenland have rejected the proposal, with 85% of Greenlanders opposing the sale. European nations, including Germany, Sweden, France, Norway, and the Netherlands, have deployed small contingents of military personnel to Greenland in solidarity with Denmark, raising concerns about potential NATO tensions.
Denmark announced plans to increase its military presence on the island after foreign ministers from Denmark and Greenland met with U.S. representatives in Washington, though the discussions failed to sway U.S. officials. Trump stated, “We have subsidized Denmark, and all of the countries of the European Union, and others, for many years by not charging them tariffs or any other forms of remuneration. Now, after centuries, it is time for Denmark to give back—world peace is at stake!”
The standoff highlights rising geopolitical competition in the Arctic, with Greenland’s strategic importance attracting attention from the U.S., China, Russia, and European powers alike.
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