Trump Imposes 10% Tariffs on Denmark, UK, France and Other European Nations Over Greenland Dispute

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a 10 per cent tariff on imports from several European countries in response to their opposition to his controversial push for the United States to gain control of Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark. The tariff will take effect from February 1, 2026, and could rise to 25 per cent from June 1 if no agreement is reached, according to Trump’s statement on social media.

The tariffs will apply to goods imported from eight European nations — Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland — all of which have voiced strong opposition to the U.S. plan. Trump framed the move as a response to what he described as resistance to U.S. security interests in Greenland, saying the tariffs would remain in place “until such time as a deal is reached for the complete and total purchase of Greenland.”

The decision marks a sharp escalation in tensions between the United States and its European allies, many of whom are NATO partners. Leaders in Europe have consistently stated that Greenland’s status is a matter for Denmark and the island’s residents, rejecting any suggestion that Greenland could be transferred or sold to the United States. Demonstrations have erupted in both Denmark and Greenland under slogans such as “Greenland is not for sale,” drawing thousands of participants who oppose Trump’s stance.

European governments have also responded by reinforcing their commitments to Greenland’s sovereignty and security. At Denmark’s request, troops from several NATO countries have been deployed to Greenland for military training exercises as part of efforts to affirm the region’s defense, separate from the broader political dispute.

While Trump insists the tariffs are necessary due to the island’s strategic importance — particularly in the context of Arctic geopolitics and national security — many analysts warn the move could redound to the detriment of transatlantic economic relations and harm diplomatic ties with long-standing allies. The escalating dispute has drawn criticism from some U.S. lawmakers and economic experts, who argue that tariffs could impact global trade and provoke retaliatory measures.

As the situation unfolds, attention remains focused on diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions, the future of U.S.–European economic cooperation, and the broader implications for NATO unity and Arctic security.