Trump threatens EU tariffs over Greenland purchase, protests erupt
US President Donald Trump has escalated his quest to acquire Greenland, threatening European allies with tariffs of up to 25% starting February 1, 2026, unless they agree to the sale of the Danish territory. The tariff will begin at 10% on all goods from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Finland, before rising to 25% on June 1, 2026, according to a Truth Social post. Trump claims the move is necessary for 'global peace and security' and US national defense against China and Russia, though Denmark has invited the US to participate in military exercises in the region.
The threats triggered mass protests in Nuuk, Greenland's capital, where thousands—including Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen—rallied under slogans like 'Make America Go Away' and 'Greenland is not for sale.' Demonstrations also took place in Copenhagen and other Danish cities, with protesters emphasizing Greenland's right to self-determination. A January 2025 poll shows 85% of Greenlanders oppose joining the US, with only 6% in favor.
A visiting US congressional delegation led by Democratic Senator Chris Coons criticized the president's stance, stating it lacks majority American support and violates international law. Trump remains 'immediately open to negotiation' but has not clarified what legal authority he would use to impose the tariffs. The move risks unprecedented tension within NATO, as all targeted countries are alliance members or partners. The US-EU trade deal that lowered tariffs last summer could be undermined by this escalation.