Trump Greenland tariffs have drawn sharp criticism from European leaders and the UK. The US president announced plans to impose tariffs on multiple NATO allies over Greenland. He said the UK will face a 10% tariff from February 1. Then, it rises to 25% from June 1. The measure will remain until Washington reaches a deal to purchase Greenland from Denmark. Trump added that levies would also target Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Finland. He claimed these countries had “journeyed to Greenland for purposes unknown.”
UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer condemned the move as “completely wrong.” He pledged to address the matter directly with US officials. Sweden’s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson stated, “We will not let ourselves be blackmailed.” Similarly, French President Emmanuel Macron said he will hold talks with European partners and resist intimidation. Finland’s Prime Minister Petteri Orpo argued tariffs serve “no-one’s interest.” Norway’s Jonas Gahr Store warned, “Threats have no place among allies.”
Earlier this week, the UK confirmed it sent a military officer to Greenland at Denmark’s request. Downing Street said this supported reconnaissance ahead of an Arctic endurance exercise and was not a “deployment.” Trump defended the tariffs on Truth Social, claiming allied actions risked “global peace and security.” He suggested Denmark should “give back” Greenland, citing Chinese and Russian interest.
Prime Minister Starmer responded firmly. He said Greenland belongs to Denmark and its people. He added that Arctic security is a shared NATO responsibility, not a reason for tariffs. EU leaders also criticized Trump Greenland tariffs. Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa said the Danish exercise posed no threat. They warned that tariffs could trigger a “dangerous downward spiral” in transatlantic relations. The EU’s foreign policy chief added that tariffs risk making the US and EU poorer while benefiting China and Russia. Former Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas agreed, saying divisions among allies help global rivals.
UK politicians joined the chorus of criticism. Tory Kemi Badenoch said the tariffs would burden British businesses. Nigel Farage warned they would harm the UK economy, while Lib Dem Sir Ed Davey accused Trump of punishment. Meanwhile, thousands rallied in Greenland’s Nuuk and across Denmark in support of self-governance and against US annexation.
Since the US discussed Greenland in early 2026, the UK has increased Arctic security talks. Starmer raised the issue in calls with Trump, Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte. The British Chambers of Commerce warned Trump Greenland tariffs could hit UK exports harder if stacked on existing duties. William Bain emphasized that the financial impact could exceed previous trade measures.
Trump Greenland tariffs remain a flashpoint in transatlantic relations. Allies insist sovereignty and cooperation must prevail over economic threats.
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