• Source:JND

US President Donald Trump has announced new trade penalties against several European countries over their refusal to support his proposal for a US takeover of Greenland. The move has intensified tensions between Washington and European capitals.

Tariffs Announced From February

In a post on Truth Social on Saturday, Trump said the United States would impose a 10 per cent tariff on countries opposing his Greenland plan from February 1. The proposed tariffs will affect Denmark, the UK, France and other European Union members.

Trump further warned that the levy would rise to 25 per cent from June 1 if no agreement is reached for what he called the “complete and total purchase” of Greenland by the United States.

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The announcement came a day after Trump publicly stated that countries opposing his Greenland plan could face economic consequences. He has repeatedly argued that the mineral-rich Arctic island is crucial for US national security.

Trump has claimed that US control of Greenland is necessary to prevent China and Russia from expanding their influence in the region. Earlier this week, he said anything short of Greenland being under US control was “unacceptable”.

Europe Rejects US Pressure

European leaders have pushed back strongly, stating that Greenland’s future can only be decided by Denmark and Greenland. Denmark recently said it was strengthening its military presence in Greenland in coordination with allies.

The White House, however, said European military steps would not affect Trump’s position. French Armed Forces Minister Alice Rufo said Europe’s actions showed it was prepared to defend sovereignty.

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Greenland And Denmark React

Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen said the territory would stand with Denmark, NATO and the European Union if forced to choose. He clearly rejected any move towards US control.

Earlier this week, Danish officials said talks in Washington revealed a “fundamental disagreement” between Copenhagen and the US over Greenland’s future.

Public Protests In Denmark

On Saturday, thousands of people marched through Copenhagen to oppose any US takeover. Protesters carried placards reading “Greenland is not for sale” and “We shape our future”, signalling strong public resistance to Trump’s proposal.


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