US President Donald Trump announced on social media that the United States will impose new tariffs on imports from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Finland.
According to the statement, an additional 10 percent tariff will apply to all goods exported from these countries to the United States starting on February 1, 2026. The tariff rate will then increase to 25 percent from June 1, 2026. These measures will remain in effect until an agreement is reached on the full purchase of Greenland by the United States.
Justification of national security
President Trump has said the tariffs are justified on national security grounds, arguing that Greenland is of strategic importance to both the United States and global security. He stressed its importance for modern missile defense systems and for solving the emerging geopolitical competition involving China and Russia.
According to Trump, Greenland's geographical location is crucial for the effectiveness of advanced defense systems, including large-scale missile shield projects. He also stated that the United States has provided Europe with extensive economic and security benefits for decades without sufficient compensation, adding that foreign activity in Greenland poses unacceptable risks to global security.
Trump said the United States remains open to negotiations with Denmark and other affected countries on Greenland and broader security measures.
The EU's response
