Editor’s Note
This article reports on announced U.S. tariff measures targeting European countries with a military presence in Greenland, citing an exemption for Italy. The details and broader context of this policy are still developing.
Trump’s Tariffs
Greenland: Trump has announced a 10% tariff on European countries that have sent troops there, which will increase to 25% in June. Italy has been exempted.
Tariff Details and Timeline
Trump commented on the deployment of European soldiers on the island via Truth Social.
“A 10% tariff will be imposed on Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, Great Britain, the Netherlands, and Finland starting February 1st. Instead, ‘from June 1st, 2026, these rates will increase to 25%’,” he said.
Trump’s Warning and Justification
“European countries are playing a very dangerous game,” Trump wrote, referring to the deployment of military personnel by various European countries. “They have gone to the island for ‘unknown purposes’. They are playing a very dangerous game. They have raised the stakes. It’s a level of risk that is not sustainable,” he warns.
He further stated that Italy is not on the list as it has not sent any soldiers. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni underlined that this is an option that cannot be ruled out, but only if envisioned within NATO.
“The United States has been trying to complete this deal for over 150 years,” the billionaire added. “Many presidents have tried, and for good reasons, but Denmark has always refused. Now, because of the ‘Golden Dome’ and modern weapon systems, whether offensive or defensive, it is particularly important to acquire it. ‘We have subsidized Denmark, all EU countries, and other nations for many years by not imposing tariffs or other types of compensation. Now, centuries later, it is time for Denmark to give back.'”
“World peace is at stake!” Trump continued. “China and Russia want Greenland, and Denmark can do nothing about it. They currently have two dog sleds for security, one recently added. ‘Only the United States, under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump, can enter this game, and with great success! No one will touch this sacred land, especially since… the national security of the United States and the entire world is at stake.'”
Denmark’s Response
In response, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen said President Donald Trump’s tariff threats are “surprising.”
According to Rasmussen, “The purpose of increasing military presence in Greenland, which the President is referring to, is to strengthen security in the Arctic.”
Copenhagen’s foreign affairs chief further stated that Denmark is “in close contact with the European Commission and other partners on this issue.” Meanwhile, ambassadors of EU member states have been called to Brussels tomorrow for an emergency meeting.
EU Leaders’ Statement
In a joint note, Antonio Costa and Ursula von der Leyen emphasized that “territorial integrity and sovereignty are fundamental principles of international law. They are essential for Europe and the broader international community. Imposing tariffs would endanger transatlantic relations and risk triggering a dangerous cycle of decline.”
“Europe will remain united. ‘We are coordinated and committed to defending our sovereignty,’ said Antonio Costa and Ursula von der Leyen in a joint statement. ‘We have consistently underlined our shared transatlantic interests in peace and security in the Arctic, including… The EU stands in full solidarity with the people of Denmark and Greenland. Dialogue remains essential, and we are committed to continuing the process initiated last week between the Danish Realm and the United States,’ the text further stated.
Reactions from Other Countries
German Federal Government spokesperson Steffen Cornelius responded in a statement: “They have taken note of the American President’s statements. They are in close contact with their European allies. We will jointly determine an appropriate response in due time.”
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson dismissed the threat by US President Donald Trump to impose tariffs on European countries over Greenland.
“We will not be intimidated. Denmark and Greenland alone decide on their respective affairs. I will always defend my country and my neighboring allies,” he said in a message sent to AFP. He emphasized that this is “a European issue.”
French President Emmanuel Macron wrote on X instead: “Tariff threats are unacceptable and have no place in this context. If confirmed, Europe will respond in a united and coordinated manner. We will ensure that European sovereignty is respected. It is in this spirit that I will speak with my European partners.”
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the tariffs announced by Donald Trump on Greenland as “completely wrong,” stressing that Greenland is part of Denmark and “its future is a matter for Greenlanders and the Danish people.”
The issue was also discussed by Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto.
