US President Donald Trump targests 8 European countries over Greenland ‘purchase’, imposes 10% tariffs on Denmark, France, Germany, warns of 25% hike

US President Donald Trump announced that he will impose a 10% tariff on goods from eight European countries starting February 1, in response to their opposition to America’s proposal to take over Greenland. The countries affected by the tariff are Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Finland. According to Trump, if an agreement is not reached on the US “whole and complete purchase of Greenland”, the customs duty will increase to 25 percent on June 1.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump claimed the move was necessary for national security, citing China and Russia’s interest in the region. He offers to negotiate but warns of increasing tariffs: 10% from 1 February 2026 and 25% from 1 June 2026.

He threatened 10 percent tariffs on several European countries; if they oppose the purchase, that rate will rise to 25 percent, and he stated that after years of U.S. support, “it’s time for Denmark to give back.”

European leaders oppose US plans

European leaders expressed their strong opposition to Trump’s plans and emphasized that the decision on Greenland’s future rests solely with Denmark and Greenland. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen rejected the possibility of a US purchase of Greenland, saying: “This is out of the question. This is not what we want in Denmark or Greenland and it is against all international rules. It violates sovereignty.” Rasmussen’s comments came after the White House claimed that a European military mission to the Arctic island would have no impact on Trump’s regional ambitions.

Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen also expressed his support for Denmark, saying, “If we have to choose here and now between the USA and Denmark, we choose Denmark. We choose NATO. We choose the Kingdom of Denmark. We choose the EU.” Nielsen’s comments reflect the strong ties between Greenland and Denmark, as well as the island’s desire for self-governance.

Protests continue in Copenhagen and Nuuk

Thousands of people took to the streets in Copenhagen and Greenland’s capital Nuuk to protest Trump’s plans and defend their right to self-government. Protesters held signs saying “We are shaping our future”, “Greenland is not for sale” and “Greenland is already BIG”, showing their determination to protect their land and way of life.

Trump justified his desire to buy Greenland by citing national security concerns, arguing that the island was vital to US interests due to its strategic location and mineral deposits. He also warned that China and Russia may try to invade the region if the United States does not take control.

But many European leaders and experts have questioned the legitimacy of these claims, arguing that Trump’s real motivations stem from his desire to expand US territory and resources.