Trump: 150-year-old US attempt to buy Greenland continues, new tariffs imposed on 8 European countries
In his recent speech, US President Donald Trump reiterated America’s long-standing desire to purchase Greenland, the world’s largest island and a self-governing territory of Denmark.
He described the region as a “sacred piece of land” whose strategic location in the Arctic affects American national security and world peace.
Trump noted that the effort to purchase Greenland has been going on for more than 150 years and that no country dares to invade it, especially when American interests are at stake.
Trump announced that starting February 1, 2026, 10% customs tariffs will be applied to imports of goods from eight European countries: Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland.
These tariffs will increase to 25% from June 1 and will remain in effect until a final agreement is reached for the full and permanent purchase of Greenland.
This action was taken in response to these countries’ opposition to the US plan to send their military forces to Greenland for joint exercises.
Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the decision completely wrong and promised to enter into direct talks with the US government.
French President Emmanuel Macron stressed that “no intimidation or threat will affect Europe in Greenland, Ukraine or anywhere else, and European countries will respond in a united and coordinated manner.”
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also said the EU stands by Denmark and the people of Greenland and that tariffs will weaken transatlantic relations.
Swedish Prime Minister Olof Kristersson called the move blackmail and said his country would not allow itself to be pressured.
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen also expressed surprise at Trump’s decision.
It is worth noting that thousands of Greenlanders demonstrated in the capital city of Nuuk, protesting against US intervention with slogans such as “Greenland is not for sale” and “Leave Greenland.”
The protests reflect growing concern among local people about the expansion of foreign influence in this strategic Arctic region.
These developments have sharply increased tensions in US relations with NATO allies and could lead to a weakening of the transatlantic alliance.
