Trump imposes 10 % tariff on Denmark, UK and France over objection to Greenland plan
This move follows Trump’s warning a day earlier that he might target countries with tariffs if they refuse to support his Greenland strategy.
PTC News Desk: US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that he will impose a 10% tariff on European nations in response to their opposition to the United States’ plan to acquire Greenland. Countries such as Denmark, the UK, France, and others in the EU will face these tariffs starting February 1.
Trump wrote on Truth Social that the tariffs would increase to 25% beginning June 1 if an agreement is not reached for the “complete and total purchase of Greenland” by the U.S.
This move follows Trump’s warning a day earlier that he might target countries with tariffs if they refuse to support his Greenland strategy.
European leaders have emphasized that decisions regarding Greenland rest solely with Denmark and Greenland themselves. Denmark recently announced that it is strengthening military operations in Greenland in collaboration with allied nations. According to the White House, European military activity will not deter Trump’s intention to take control of the island — a stance French Armed Forces Minister Alice Rufo called evidence that Europe stands ready to protect its sovereignty.
Trump has repeatedly argued that the mineral-rich island is essential for U.S. “national security.” Earlier this week, he said that anything short of American possession of Greenland is “unacceptable.” He has claimed that U.S. control is necessary to prevent China and Russia from gaining a foothold there.
After discussions in Washington on Wednesday, Danish officials stated that Copenhagen and Washington are in “fundamental disagreement” regarding Greenland’s future.
On Saturday, thousands of people demonstrated in Copenhagen in support of Greenland’s self-governance, protesting against the idea of a U.S. takeover. Marchers held placards reading, “We shape our future,” “Greenland is not for sale,” and “Greenland is already GREAT.”
Denmark’s foreign minister, Lars Løkke Rasmussen, reiterated on Thursday that the United States will not be allowed to buy Greenland, dismissing the White House’s stance that European military cooperation would not hinder Trump’s plans. He stated, “This is out of the question. It is not what Denmark wants, nor Greenland, and it violates international norms. It infringes on sovereignty.”
Greenland’s prime minister, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, said on Tuesday, “If we must choose between the United States and Denmark right now, we choose Denmark. We choose NATO. We choose the Kingdom of Denmark. We choose the EU.”