U.S. President Donald Trump has announced plans to impose escalating tariffs on eight European nations unless a deal is reached for the U.S. to purchase Greenland, intensifying transatlantic tensions this week. The move, outlined in a January 16 statement, targets Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Finland.
A 10% tariff on all exports to the U.S. from these countries is set to begin February 1, 2026, with rates scheduled to rise to 25% by June 1 if no agreement is finalized. Trump emphasized the measures would remain until achieving a "complete and total purchase of Greenland," citing strategic interests.
The announcement follows increased European military deployments to Greenland, including French troops arriving January 15. Denmark, which governs Greenland’s foreign policy, has repeatedly rejected U.S. acquisition proposals since Trump first raised the idea in 2019.
Analysts warn the tariffs could disrupt $220 billion in annual transatlantic trade, with Germany’s auto sector and Nordic renewable energy exports particularly vulnerable. EU officials are expected to convene an emergency meeting this week to coordinate responses.
