European Leaders Condemn Trump's Tariff Threat Over Greenland Acquisition

Sun Jan 18 2026 01:34:26 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A recent assertion by President Trump to impose tariffs on European allies opposing the acquisition of Greenland has drawn sharp backlash from several European leaders. This escalation highlights the growing tension surrounding the autonomous territory's future.

President Trump's proposal to impose tariffs on eight European countries opposed to the U.S. takeover of Greenland, termed 'unacceptable' by leaders in Europe, has sparked widespread protests in Greenland and Denmark. The tariffs are intended to leverage negotiations aimed at acquiring the strategically important and resource-rich territory, which Trump claims is crucial for U.S. security. Meanwhile, European nations express unity against what they see as coercive measures against allies.

A threat by President Donald Trump to impose fresh tariffs on eight allies opposed to his proposed takeover of Greenland has drawn condemnation from European leaders.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the move was 'completely wrong' while French President Emmanuel Macron called it 'unacceptable'. Swedish PM Ulf Kristersson added: 'We won't let ourselves be blackmailed.'

The comments followed Trump's announcement of a 10% tariff on goods from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Finland, effective February 1. This could escalate to 25% for an indefinite period until an agreement is reached.

Trump insists the Danish territory is critical for U.S. security, expressing willingness to consider military options if necessary.

On the ground, thousands protested in Greenland and Denmark against the proposed U.S. acquisition, emphasizing the territory's autonomy.

Greenland is rich in resources and strategically located, but polls show 85% of Greenlanders oppose joining the U.S.

Solidarity has emerged among European nations, with Denmark's allies emphasizing that Arctic security should be a NATO responsibility. Recent troop deployments for reconnaissance missions alongside heightened tensions signify a collective defense stance against Trump's tariffs.

Leaders including Macron and Starmer reiterated their commitment to standing firm against perceived intimidation, advocating for a diplomatic rather than a coercive approach to resolving the issue surrounding Greenland's future.

As public sentiment in Greenland shifts against U.S. ownership, debates ignite over self-determination and international law amidst growing geopolitical complexities.