Washington / Copenhagen: US President Donald Trump on Friday suggested that the United States might impose tariffs on countries that do not support his plans regarding Greenland, framing the Arctic island as essential to US national security. The remarks were made during a White House roundtable on healthcare but focused heavily on foreign policy priorities tied to Greenland.
“I may put a tariff on countries if they don’t go along with Greenland, because we need Greenland for national security,” the president said, referring to Greenland’s strategic importance in the Arctic.
Trump has long argued that Greenland’s location — between North America and Europe — makes it critical for deterring rivals such as Russia and China and supporting broader defence initiatives.
This tariff threat marks a new escalation in the tense standoff over Greenland’s future. It comes as Danish and Greenlandic officials lobby US lawmakers after Trump’s push to “acquire” or exert greater control over the territory sparked strong pushback.
White House and Military Options Still on the Table
The White House has reiterated that acquiring Greenland is a national security priority, discussing a range of options — including, officials say, the possible use of the US military — though US spokespeople describe such talk as part of diplomatic leverage.
International Pushback and Diplomatic Efforts
In response to recent rhetoric:
- A bipartisan group of 11 US lawmakers visited Denmark and Greenland to defuse tensions, emphasising support for Greenlandic self-determination and respect for international law. They also stressed that US expansionist talk undermines NATO unity.
- Denmark and Greenland continue to reject Trump’s proposals, insisting the territory should remain under Danish sovereignty and not be “sold”.
- Officials from Greenland have urged diplomacy and respect for the island’s autonomy, planning demonstrations in support of sovereignty in major cities.
Arctic Geopolitics and European Signals
The dispute taps into larger geopolitical concerns about Russian and Chinese interest in the Arctic region. While Trump and his advisers argue US control would enhance deterrence, European allies have been openly critical of unilateral moves that could undermine NATO and regional stability.
Amid this backdrop, both diplomatic engagements and troop movements to Greenland by NATO partners reflect growing international interest in Arctic security, even as the island’s inhabitants and leaders advocate for their right to self-determination.