18.01.2026 19:52
The decision to impose tariffs on 8 European countries for not supporting the U.S. policies regarding Greenland has led to new tensions along the transatlantic line. Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and the United Kingdom reacted with a joint statement to Washington, warning that the decision would harm the spirit of NATO alliance.
The decision of the United States to impose tariffs on 8 European countries due to their support for Denmark regarding Greenland has received a strong reaction from Europe. Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and the United Kingdom warned in a joint statement that this step would weaken transatlantic relations.
"ARCTIC SECURITY IS A NATO RESPONSIBILITY"
The joint statement emphasized that the mentioned countries are determined to strengthen the security of the Arctic region as NATO allies. It was noted that the "Arctic Endurance" exercise planned to be held in Greenland had been coordinated earlier, and it was stated that the exercise does not pose a threat to any country.
"WE ARE IN FULL SOLIDARITY WITH DENMARK AND GREENLAND"
The statement indicated that there is full solidarity with the Kingdom of Denmark and the people of Greenland, while emphasizing openness to dialogue based on the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. European countries stated that the threats of tariffs damage relations, saying, "We will continue to respond in unity and coordination. We are determined to protect our sovereignty."
TRUMP'S TARIFF MOVE AGAINST EUROPE
U.S. President Donald Trump announced that tariffs would be imposed on 8 European countries for opposing the U.S. purchase of Greenland, claiming that world peace was at risk in the Greenland discussions.
Trump announced that a 10% tariff would be applied to Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland starting from February 1, 2026, and a 25% tariff would be applied after June 1, 2026. Trump stated that these rates would remain in effect until an agreement on the complete transfer of Greenland to the U.S. was reached.
"GREENLAND IS VITAL FOR OUR NATIONAL SECURITY"
Trump argued that the U.S. "needs Greenland for national security reasons" and that the region is vital in terms of the "Dome of Defense" system. Despite discussions among the foreign ministers of the U.S., Denmark, and Greenland in Washington, it was expressed that fundamental disagreements persist and that the U.S. desire to control Greenland continues.
MILITARY ACTIVITY IS INCREASING
The autonomous region of Greenland, which is part of the Kingdom of Denmark, had previously rejected proposals from the U.S. that included the transfer of sovereignty. Recently, Denmark has called for increased military cooperation in the region with its allies, while some European countries announced that they would send small military units and officers to Greenland.