US Tariffs on Greenland: Europe Prepares a Unified Response, NATO Ties Tested?

European nations have reacted sharply to US President Donald Trump’s threat to impose tariffs over Greenland. Leaders from France, the United Kingdom, Germany, Sweden, Denmark, and Italy have criticized Trump’s statement, reaffirmed Denmark’s sovereignty over Greenland, and indicated a collective response.

EU Demands Use of Anti-Coercion Measures

According to Xinhua News Agency, Bernd Lange, Chair of the European Parliament’s International Trade Committee, urged the European Commission to implement the EU’s Anti-Coercion Instrument, calling for a clear and strong response. Trump announced that starting February 1, a 10% tariff would be imposed on all goods from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Finland. He stated that this step is being taken due to the ongoing Greenland dispute.

Lange described the US move as a violation of the EU-US trade and tariff agreement signed in Scotland in July 2025. He said the European Parliament will discuss the issue with various political groups next week, adding that “normal proceedings are unlikely under the current circumstances, and work may be halted.”

US Military Base in Greenland

Greenland is a self-governing territory under the Kingdom of Denmark, with defense and foreign policy controlled by Copenhagen. The US also maintains a military base on the island. Trump has shown longstanding interest in Greenland, even considering purchasing it during his first term. Recently, he has intensified efforts, including potential military involvement, deepening the Greenland crisis.

European Leaders Condemn US Threats

French President Emmanuel Macron condemned Trump’s tariff threats as “unacceptable,” warning that European nations would respond collectively if these threats materialize. Macron emphasized that France is committed to the sovereignty and independence of nations globally and highlighted the importance of Arctic security and NATO collaboration.

Dutch Foreign Minister David van Weel called the US plan “blackmail,” “unreasonable,” and “illogical,” stressing that efforts must ensure this “absurd plan” is canceled. Despite the threats, the Netherlands will continue participating in NATO exercises in Greenland.

British Prime Minister Keir Stormer described Trump’s tariff threats as “completely wrong,” affirming that Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark and its future should be decided by Greenlanders and Denmark. Stormer stressed that Arctic security is crucial for NATO, and imposing tariffs on allies undermines collective defense.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also criticized the US threats as a “mistake” and stated that she had communicated her concerns to President Trump during a recent call, emphasizing that imposing new restrictions today would be wrong.

As tensions rise, the Greenland issue is testing transatlantic alliances and could have broader implications for NATO’s unity and Arctic security.