US President Donald Trump announced that tariffs ranging from 10% to 25% will be imposed on products imported from European Union countries.
Trump stated that the decision was intended to increase pressure on Denmark to buy Greenland and that it was based on national security grounds.
According to Trump, the US has effectively subsidized Denmark and EU countries for many years; however, tougher measures are now necessary for the sake of “world peace and security.” The President argued that China and Russia are interested in Greenland, stating that the region’s strategic importance has increased and that, under current security conditions, only the US can play a decisive role there.
Tariff Details and Implementation
According to the decision, a 10% tariff will be applied to all products originating from Denmark, as well as Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland, starting February 1, 2026. This rate will increase to 25% on June 1, 2026. Trump stated that these tariffs will remain in effect until an agreement is reached for the “complete and total purchase” of Greenland.
Historical Context and Strategic Importance
Trump, recalling that attempts to buy Greenland by the US have been on the agenda for over 150 years, said that many presidents in the past had taken steps in this direction, but Denmark had rejected the offer every time. He argued that modern defense systems, known today as the “Golden Dome,” and hundreds of billions of dollars in security investments could operate most efficiently with the inclusion of Greenland geographically.
Call for Negotiations
Trump stated that the US was open to immediate negotiations with Denmark and other countries involved, arguing that this step was essential for maintaining global peace and security.