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Europe Unites Against Trump's Greenland Tariff Threats, Warns of NATO Risk

Several European nations have issued a joint statement expressing full solidarity with Denmark and Greenland following tariff threats from former US President Donald Trump. The statement asserts that a routine Arctic military exercise poses no threat and that the tariff ultimatum undermines critical transatlantic relations. Trump has threatened escalating tariffs on eight European countries unless a deal is reached for the US to purchase Greenland, citing national security. European leaders warn the situation risks a dangerous downward spiral and could impact the future of the NATO alliance.

Key Points: Europe Rejects Trump's Greenland Tariff Threats, Backs Denmark

  • European solidarity with Denmark & Greenland
  • Trump threatens tariffs over Greenland purchase
  • NATO's Arctic security commitment cited
  • Risk of dangerous transatlantic spiral
3 min read

"Tariff threats undermine transatlantic relations": European countries express solidarity with Denmark, Greenland

European nations issue a joint statement of solidarity with Denmark and Greenland, condemning Trump's tariff threats as a danger to transatlantic relations and NATO.

"Tariff threats undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral. - Joint European Statement"

Copenhagen, January 18

Several European countries came together and expressed support and solidarity with Denmark and Greenland amid the threat by US President Donald Trump to impose tariffs on eight European nations untill it is allowed to acquire Greenland.

A joint statement by Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and the United Kingdom--shared by the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 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.

"As members of NATO, we are committed to strengthening Arctic security as a shared transatlantic interest. The pre- coordinated Danish exercise "Arctic Endurance" conducted with Allies, responds to this necessity. It poses no threat to anyone. We stand in full solidarity with the Kingdom of Denmark and the people of Greenland. Building on the process begun last week, we stand ready to engage in a dialogue based on the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity that we stand firmly behind. Tariff threats undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral. We will continue to stand united and coordinated in our response. We are committed to upholding our sovereignty", the joint statement said.

On Saturday, Trump threatened to impose 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

S
Sarah B
From an Indian perspective, this feels like a classic case of a powerful nation throwing its weight around. We've seen similar tactics in trade before. The European unity in response is commendable. No country should be bullied into giving up land.
P
Priya S
The timing is interesting. With global focus on the Indo-Pacific, this Arctic move creates another flashpoint. India should watch this closely. It shows how quickly alliances can be strained. Hope diplomacy prevails. 🤞
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Rohit P
While the US's security concerns might be valid, the method is all wrong. You can't just threaten your allies with tariffs to get what you want. This undermines NATO itself. What's next? Very short-sighted strategy, in my opinion.
K
Karthik V
The article mentions China and Russia's interest. This feels like a new Great Game, but in the Arctic. For India, it's a reminder to strengthen our own strategic partnerships and not be overly reliant on any single power bloc. Interesting times ahead.
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Michael C
A respectful criticism: The joint statement is strong on words, but the real test will be in the unity of their economic response if tariffs are actually imposed. Europe needs to have a concrete, unified counter-strategy, not just statements.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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