The Announcement: “The Greenland Tariffs”

In a series of posts on Truth Social, President Trump declared that the U.S. would impose a 10% import tax on eight specific European nations starting February 1, 2026. He further warned that if a deal for the “Complete and Total purchase of Greenland” is not reached, the rate will jump to 25% on June 1, 2026.

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The Targeted Nations:

• Nordic Countries: Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland
• Major Economies: United Kingdom, France, Germany, the Netherlands

Trump framed the move as a response to these countries playing a “very dangerous game” by sending military personnel to Greenland to support Danish sovereignty, which he claimed undermines U.S. national security.

Strategic Justification

The administration has tied the acquisition of Greenland to three primary objectives:

1. The “Golden Dome”: Trump argues the territory is essential for the maximum efficiency of a new U.S. missile defense system.
2. Resource Competition: The White House claims Russia and China are actively seeking to control Greenland’s vast, untapped critical minerals.
3. End of “Subsidies”: Trump asserted that the U.S. has “subsidized” Europe for decades and that Denmark should “give back” the territory to ensure world peace.

Global Backlash and Protests

The response from Europe and within Greenland has been swift and defiant:

• In Greenland: Thousands of citizens gathered in the capital, Nuuk, for “Hands off Greenland” protests. Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen addressed the crowds, stating, “Greenland is not for sale.”
• European Union: EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Council President Antonio Costa warned of a “dangerous downward spiral” in transatlantic relations. An emergency meeting of EU ambassadors is scheduled for January 18, 2026.
• United Kingdom: Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the tariffs “completely wrong,” emphasizing that Greenland’s future is a matter only for the Danes and Greenlanders.
• Sweden & Norway: Swedish PM Ulf Kristersson labeled the move “blackmail,” while Norwegian PM Jonas Gahr Støre stated that “threats have no place among allies.”

What Happens Next?

This week marks a critical window for diplomacy:

• Davos Summit: President Trump is scheduled to travel to the World Economic Forum in Switzerland this Tuesday, where he is expected to face the very leaders he has targeted.
• Legal Challenges: In the U.S., the Supreme Court is currently reviewing the legality of the President’s executive authority to impose such tariffs, with a ruling expected as early as next week.