Washington: Tensions between the United States and Europe have escalated sharply over the fate of Greenland, stirring diplomatic unease and concerns about transatlantic ties.
The crisis was sparked by U.S. President Donald Trump’s aggressive stance on gaining control of the vast Arctic territory, which is an autonomous part of the Kingdom of Denmark and of strategic interest to NATO allies.
Trump has repeatedly insisted that Greenland is essential to U.S. national security, citing its location and potential to counter Russian and Chinese influence in the Arctic.
In a controversial ultimatum, he announced that from February 1, 2026, a 10 per cent tariff will be imposed on imports from eight European nations — Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands and Finland — unless they concede to a U.S. deal on Greenland. The tariff could rise to 25 per cent by June if no agreement is reached.
Europe’s response was swift and unified. The eight countries issued a joint declaration supporting Denmark and Greenland, emphasising that sovereignty and Arctic security are shared responsibilities under NATO. They criticised the tariff threat as harmful to historic alliances and warned it could trigger a dangerous downward spiral in relations. European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, dismissed U.S. economic pressure as unacceptable, underlining that “no amount of intimidation” will alter their course.
Military posturing has also surfaced in the Arctic. European NATO partners, with Denmark, have mobilised troops in Greenland as part of Operation Arctic Endurance, aimed at reinforcing collective defence and deterring unilateral moves. Thousands of European soldiers and planning teams have arrived in Nuuk and other sites, reflecting deep concern over the rising dispute.
Amid growing public opposition, large protests erupted in Greenland and Denmark against any U.S. takeover, with demonstrators chanting, “Greenland is not for sale.” Leaders from Copenhagen to Nuuk have reaffirmed that their destiny will be decided through sovereign and lawful means, not coercion.