Trump slaps tariffs on 8 nations opposing US control of Greenland

President Donald Trump on Saturday announced tariffs on eight European nations that have opposed the United States' control of Greenland. The affected countries are Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom—most of which are U.S. allies.

The tariffs will take effect February 1, 2026, charging a 10% duty on all goods shipped from these nations to the U.S. The rate will increase to 25% from June 1, 2026. Trump stated the tariffs will remain in place until a deal is reached for the "complete and total purchase of Greenland."

In a post on Truth Social, Trump accused these nations of playing a "very dangerous game" that risks global peace. He said the U.S. has been "subsidizing" Denmark and other countries for centuries by not charging them remuneration. Trump reiterated claims that China and Russia want Greenland, stating there's nothing Denmark can do to prevent a U.S. takeover.

This marks an escalation in tensions over Greenland, a self-governing territory under Danish control. Trump cited national security and world peace as reasons for the tariff threat. The move follows recent trips to Greenland by officials from the affected nations, which Trump criticized as "for purposes unknown."

With U.S. allies now facing economic pressure, this unprecedented tariff threat creates significant uncertainty for transatlantic trade relations. Will European nations negotiate on Greenland to avoid escalating costs for their exporters, or will they call Trump's bluff and risk trade disruption?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/01/17/trump-imposes-tariffs-on-nations-opposing-us-control-of-greenland/