Washington DC | January 18, 2026
In a controversial move that shocked European capitals, US President Donald Trump announced on social media that the United States will impose a 10% import tariff on goods coming from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Finland starting February 1, 2026.
Trump further declared that the tariff would increase to 25% on June 1, 2026, and would remain in effect “until a full and final agreement is reached on the purchase of Greenland.”
The announcement triggered immediate backlash from the European Union, which called the decision “dangerous” and summoned an emergency meeting to discuss the proposed tariffs.
Trump Justifies Tariffs Through Greenland Security Concerns
Posting on Truth Social, Trump claimed that the US has “subsidized Denmark, the EU, and several other nations for years without charging tariffs or receiving payments.”
Trump wrote:
“It’s time Denmark gives something back because world peace is at stake. China and Russia want Greenland, and Denmark can do nothing. They have only two dog sleds for security.”
He added that only the United States — “under the leadership of President Donald Trump” — could ensure the security of what he called a “sacred land” tied to global and American national security.
Trump said increasing numbers of citizens from the eight targeted European countries were entering Greenland with “unclear intentions,” arguing that this raised additional security concerns.
Tariffs Linked Directly to Greenland Purchase
Trump reiterated that the tariff hike is directly tied to America’s long-standing interest in buying Greenland:
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10% tariff on eight European nations starting Feb 1, 2026
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25% tariff beginning June 1, 2026
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Tariffs to remain “until Greenland is fully and finally purchased by the United States”
He stated that the US has attempted to acquire Greenland for over 150 years, with several presidents considering the move. Trump argued that advances in “golden dome” missile defense and other modern weapon systems make acquiring Greenland even more essential today.
Trump claimed:
“These advanced systems work best only when Greenland is included. Geography, angles, and boundaries are critical.”
EU Condemns Move; Warns of Threat to Transatlantic Relations
Hours after Trump’s announcement, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen condemned the proposed tariffs, stating they:
“Damage relations on both sides of the Atlantic and create a dangerous downward spiral.”
She expressed full solidarity with Denmark and the people of Greenland, adding that sovereignty and territorial integrity are fundamental principles of international law.
In a post on X, von der Leyen said:
“Dialogue is essential. The EU stands firmly with Denmark and Greenland. Tariffs will hurt both sides and create instability.”
She emphasized that Europe will remain united and will defend its sovereignty.
EU Convenes Emergency Meeting
According to a report by France24, the EU has called an emergency meeting to discuss the proposed tariffs and craft a coordinated response.
Von der Leyen reiterated the EU’s commitment to protecting Arctic peace, Denmark’s territorial integrity, and international law, noting that several EU allies had already begun diplomatic discussions with Washington.
Greenland remains a self-governing territory under the Kingdom of Denmark, and European leaders have repeatedly stated that decisions about its future rest solely with Denmark and the people of Greenland.
