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Merz, EU Nations Back Denmark Against Trump's Greenland Tariff Threats

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz declared European unity with Denmark and Greenland, condemning tariff threats that risk a dangerous spiral in transatlantic relations. This follows a joint statement from eight European nations expressing full solidarity after former US President Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs unless Greenland is sold. Trump has set escalating tariff deadlines starting in 2026, framing the acquisition as a national security necessity against Chinese and Russian interests. The situation has raised alarms within NATO, with European leaders concerned it could severely damage the alliance.

Key Points: EU Stands With Denmark Against Trump's Greenland Tariff Threats

  • EU nations issue joint solidarity statement
  • Trump threatens tariffs over Greenland purchase
  • Tariffs could start at 10% in 2026
  • Merz warns of undermining NATO security
  • Greenland and Denmark reject US acquisition
3 min read

Stand united and coordinated with Denmark and people of Greenland: German Chancellor Merz

German Chancellor Merz leads European solidarity with Denmark & Greenland, warning Trump's tariff threats risk a "dangerous downward spiral" in transatlantic ties.

"Tariff threats undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral. - Friedrich Merz"

Berlin, January 19

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Sunday that they stand united and coordinated with Denmark and the people of Greenland and said Tariff threats undermine transatlantic relations and risk a "dangerous downward spiral".

The German Chancellor said that the threat of tariffs undermines transatlantic relations.

In a post on X, he said, "We stand united and coordinated with Denmark and the people of Greenland. As a member of NATO, we are committed to strengthening Arctic security as a shared transatlantic interest. Tariff threats undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral."

Earlier on Sunday, several European countries came together and expressed support and solidarity with Denmark and Greenland amid the rising tensions with US President Donald Trump, who remains adamant about acquiring Greenland.

In a joint statement by Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and the United Kingdom--shared by the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was mentioned that exercise 'Arctic Endurance' does not pose a threat to anyone and that the countries stand in full solidarity with Denmark and the people of Greenland.

The statement highlighted that the threat of tariffs undermines transatlantic relations and risks a dangerous downward spiral.

On Saturday, Trump threatened to impose 10 percent tariffs on the United Kingdom and other European countries unless they agree to sell Greenland.

In his post, Trump claimed the move is necessary for national security, citing China's and Russia's interest in the territory.

He offered to negotiate with the European nations but warned of escalating tariffs of 10 per cent from February 1, 2026, and 25 per cent from June 1, 2026, if a deal wasn't reached, stating it was "time for Denmark to give back" after years of US support.

Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland are the countries Trump mentioned in his post, which are now under fire from his tariff threats.

"Starting on February 1st, 2026, all of the above mentioned Countries (Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, The United Kingdom, The Netherlands, and Finland), will be charged a 10% Tariff on any and all goods sent to the United States of America. On June 1st, 2026, the Tariff will be increased to 25%. This Tariff will be due and payable until such time as a Deal is reached for the Complete and Total purchase of Greenland," Trump posted.

Trump has been adamant about acquiring Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark, citing national security concerns.

Washington claims Greenland's strategic location and mineral resources are vital to its security, but the leadership in Denmark and Greenland have rejected the idea, emphasising their right to self-determination. The situation has sparked concerns about the potential impact on NATO, with some European leaders warning that a US attempt to seize Greenland could lead to the alliance's demise.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priyanka N
From an Indian perspective, this is a stark reminder of why strategic autonomy is so crucial. We cannot be overly dependent on any single power bloc. Europe is learning this the hard way with these tariff threats. The people of Greenland have a right to decide their own future.
A
Aman W
Honestly, while the method is crude, the strategic thinking isn't wrong. The Arctic is becoming a new geopolitical hotspot with China and Russia active there. The US wanting a foothold makes sense. But you can't just bully allies into selling land! There has to be a diplomatic way.
S
Sarah B
This is destabilizing for the entire world order. NATO is supposed to be about collective defense, not economic coercion between members. If the alliance breaks down over this, it will create a huge power vacuum. Chancellor Merz is correct to call for unity.
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Vikram M
The "time for Denmark to give back" line is astonishing. It treats international relations like a property dispute. It reminds me of colonial-era thinking. Respect for sovereignty is the bedrock of the modern world. Europe must hold firm.
K
Kiran H
As an Indian, I have to say the European response is strong on paper but weak in action. They issue statements but what tangible counter-measures do they have? They need to build economic resilience independently, just like India is trying to do with Atmanirbhar Bharat. Talk is cheap.

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