United States President Donald Trump’s announcement of new tariffs targeting key European allies has triggered sharp opposition from regional leaders, further escalating concerns among investors over transatlantic trade. The move follows a dispute surrounding Trump’s push to take control of Greenland, drawing united resistance from several European governments.
On Saturday, Trump revealed through his Truth Social platform that a 10% tariff would be imposed on all imports coming from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland, effective February 1. He indicated this tariff would rise to 25% on June 1. These measures come in response to recent deployments of European troops to Greenland; eight countries sent personnel to the Arctic island earlier in the week, citing NATO’s responsibility for regional security after Trump’s threats to forcibly acquire the territory.
European responses were swift and critical. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer dismissed the tariff threat as unjustified, while French President Emmanuel Macron objected to the move. The European Union has convened an emergency meeting of ambassadors to formulate a collective response.
Greenland, although sparsely settled, is significant both for its mineral reserves and strategic position between North America and the Arctic, factors central to ongoing security discussions. Trump has previously underscored the island’s importance for U.S. defense and reiterated that all options, including the use of force, remain under consideration.
Thousands demonstrated in Greenland and Denmark over the weekend in protest against Washington’s takeover plan, underscoring growing public unease. The situation remains highly fluid, with EU officials scheduled to discuss next steps at Sunday’s emergency session.
