NATO member countries and US President Donald Trump are now openly at odds over Greenland. Trump announced on Saturday that he will impose a 10% import duty on goods from eight European countries starting February, in response to opposition against US control over Greenland. These nations are part of military exercises in Greenland. France and Britain have openly criticized Trump's decision. This prompted the EU to call an emergency meeting.
Trump stated via social media that Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland will be subject to this tariff. He further warned that if no agreement is reached for the 'outright purchase of Greenland' by the US, the tariff rate will increase to 25% starting June 1.
The US President hinted his use of tariffs as a strategic weapon in negotiations concerning Greenland’s status with Denmark and other European countries. Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory under NATO ally Denmark, is deemed strategically significant for American security.
Denmark's Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen expressed shock over Washington's move, considering their recent productive discussions with senior US officials.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council chief Antonio Costa issued a joint statement indicating that these tariffs will 'undermine relations.' They affirmed Europe’s commitment to maintaining its sovereignty.
Queries also arise regarding the White House’s method of implementing these tariffs, since the EU functions as a unified economic zone. This raises the question of how tariffs might be selectively applied to only eight nations.
The actions suggest these tariffs are a response to symbolic troop deployments in Greenland by European countries.
French President Emmanuel Macron stated in opposition to Trump's move, 'France is dedicated to the sovereignty and freedom of nations in Europe and globally. On these grounds, France supports Ukraine and will continue to do so. It is also why France decided to participate in the military exercises hosted by Denmark in Greenland. France stands by this decision as Arctic and European border security is at stake.'
Macron further adds, 'France cannot be intimidated or pressured, whether concerning Ukraine, Greenland, or elsewhere around the globe.'
He labeled tariff threats completely unjustifiable, vowing a united European response if enacted. Europe will not compromise its sovereignty.
Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer declared, 'Our stance on Greenland is unequivocal. It's part of Denmark's Kingdom, and its future is for the people of Greenland and Denmark to determine. Imposing tariffs on allies working for NATO’s collective security is utterly wrong. This issue will be directly addressed with the US administration.'
