Leaders of European countries emphasized that the threat of tariffs "undermines transatlantic relations" and could lead to a "dangerous spiral of deterioration" in the region, as stated in an official document released by the German government’s press service.
As NATO members, these states reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring security in the Arctic region as a common task facing the transatlantic community.
“Our response to these threats will be unanimous and coordinated. We are focused on protecting our sovereignty and express full solidarity with the Kingdom of Denmark and the people of Greenland,” stated Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.
On January 17, Trump announced that starting February 1, a 10 percent tariff would be imposed on goods imported into the U.S. from eight countries. He added that this rate could increase to 25 percent starting June 1. These tariffs will remain in effect until a deal for the "complete and final purchase of Greenland" is reached, the president noted.
Additionally, it has become known that EU lawmakers will not approve the transatlantic trade agreement between Brussels and Washington. This agreement implied the establishment of a 15 percent tariff by the U.S. on imports from the EU in exchange for the European Union's waiver of tariffs on American exports.
It should be noted that a bill concerning the "annexation of Greenland and granting it state status" is already under consideration in Congress. The explanation for this document states that it allows for the possibility of taking "any necessary steps" to acquire the island as U.S. territory.
Previously, Trump asserted that the United States would achieve control over Greenland "one way or another." During his first term, he proposed buying the island, and in March 2025, he expressed confidence in the possibility of annexation, threatening Copenhagen with the imposition of trade tariffs in case of refusal.
Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. In 1951, Washington and Copenhagen signed a Treaty for the Protection of the Island, which obligates the U.S. to defend Greenland against potential aggression.
