Related videos:
The president Donald Trump announced this Saturday that he will impose tariffs on several European countries starting in February 2026 to pressure them into accepting a "full purchase" agreement for Greenland, as he considers the island vital for national and global security.
In a lengthy message posted on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump stated that the United States has "subsidized" Denmark and other countries in the European Union for decades by not charging them tariffs, and asserted that it is now time for them to "give something in return" because, as he said, "world peace is at stake."
The leader assured that China and Russia are seeking to control Greenland and that Denmark "cannot do anything to prevent it," while downplaying the current defensive capabilities of the territory.
In that context, he stated that only the United States, under his presidency, can guarantee the protection of the island and prevent it from becoming a point of global conflict.
Trump announced that, starting from February 1, 2026, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland will have to pay a 10% tariff on all goods they export to the United States.
Starting June 1, 2026, that rate will increase to 25%. The tariffs will remain in effect until, according to the president, an agreement is reached for the "full and total purchase" of Greenland.
The official linked the acquisition of the island to the development of advanced defense systems, including the so-called "Golden Dome," stating that its maximum effectiveness depends on the inclusion of Greenland for geographical and strategic reasons.
He indicated that Washington invests "hundreds of billions of dollars" in security programs related to that system, including possible protection for Canada.
Trump stated that the United States has been trying to buy Greenland for over 150 years and that several presidents have attempted it unsuccessfully due to Denmark's refusal.
According to your message, the current context of modern weaponry and global competition makes acquisition "especially important" now.
The warning comes after Trump publicly stated the day before that he would consider imposing tariffs on countries that oppose his plans for Greenland during a roundtable at the White House.
The leader then stated that the island is indispensable for the national security of the United States.
The renewed offensive has caused concern among European allies and within the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).
In recent weeks, countries such as France, Germany, Sweden, and Norway have deployed troops to Greenland as a preventive measure, according to international reports, amid escalating tensions in the Arctic.
Greenland, an autonomous territory under Danish sovereignty, hosts a U.S. military base and has gained strategic significance due to the melting associated with climate change, which opens new maritime routes and facilitates access to natural resources.
Domestically, the proposal faces strong opposition. A Quinnipiac University poll indicated that 86% of American voters are against military action to take control of Greenland, while 55% oppose any attempt to purchase it, and only 37% support such a move.
Despite this, Trump has reiterated that he does not rule out any economic or strategic tool to achieve his goal and stated that the United States is "immediately open to negotiating" with Denmark and the involved European countries.
Filed under: