European leaders condemned United States President Donald Trump's threat to impose tariffs on countries resisting his efforts to acquire Greenland. The eight nations targeted by the proposed tariffs issued a joint statement Sunday, expressing their unified support for Denmark and the people of Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark.
The move by Trump follows weeks of escalating tensions after his administration publicly expressed interest in purchasing the Arctic island. Denmark has repeatedly rejected the notion of selling Greenland, prompting Trump's threat of economic sanctions.
"These tariffs are a blatant attempt to bully sovereign nations and undermine international cooperation," the joint statement read. "We stand firmly with Denmark and Greenland against this unwarranted aggression." The statement did not name the specific leaders who signed it.
The prospect of the United States acquiring Greenland has been met with widespread criticism, not only in Europe but also within Greenland itself. On January 17, 2026, thousands of Greenlanders demonstrated in Nuuk, the capital, waving Greenlandic flags in protest. The demonstration, according to local reports, drew nearly a third of the city's population.
Greenland, while part of the Kingdom of Denmark, possesses a significant degree of self-governance, managing its own internal affairs. Denmark is responsible for Greenland's foreign policy and defense. The island's strategic location in the Arctic, with its potential for resource extraction and military positioning, has long been of interest to global powers.
The European Union has also weighed in on the dispute, with officials in Brussels warning that the tariffs could trigger a trade war. "The EU stands in solidarity with its member states and partners," a spokesperson for the European Commission said. "We are prepared to respond appropriately to protect our interests."
The United States has not yet formally announced when the tariffs would take effect. The situation remains fluid, with diplomatic efforts underway to de-escalate tensions. However, the threat of tariffs has already cast a shadow over transatlantic relations, raising concerns about the future of international trade and security cooperation.
Discussion
Join the conversation
Be the first to comment