U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs on countries that oppose his ambition to annex Greenland, a self-governing territory under the sovereignty of Denmark. Speaking at a White House meeting, Trump stated he "may put a tariff on countries if they don't go along with Greenland," though he did not specify which nations might be targeted or the legal basis for such tariffs.

Trump's remarks coincided with a bipartisan congressional delegation's visit to Greenland, intended to demonstrate support for the territory. The 11-member delegation, including Republicans who have expressed reservations about the president's interest in acquiring Greenland for U.S. national security purposes, met with members of parliament, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, and Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen. Senator Chris Coons, a Democrat and the delegation leader, did not comment on the President's tariff threat.

The prospect of the United States acquiring Greenland has been met with resistance not only from Denmark and Greenland, but also from within the U.S., where many have voiced skepticism. Greenland, while part of the Kingdom of Denmark, possesses significant autonomy, managing its own internal affairs, while Denmark handles foreign policy and defense. The island's strategic location, rich natural resources, and potential for scientific research have made it a subject of international interest.

The notion of the U.S. purchasing Greenland is not new. In 1946, the U.S. offered Denmark $100 million for the island, an offer that was declined. During the Cold War, Greenland's Thule Air Base became a crucial part of U.S. defense strategy. The current interest in Greenland reflects growing geopolitical competition in the Arctic, particularly concerning access to resources and shipping routes as ice caps melt due to climate change.

The potential imposition of tariffs adds a new layer of complexity to the already strained relationship between the U.S. and some of its allies. It remains unclear how the U.S. would proceed, given the widespread opposition to the acquisition and the questions surrounding the legality and practicality of using tariffs to achieve such a foreign policy objective. The situation is ongoing, and further developments are expected as discussions continue between the U.S., Denmark, and Greenland.