US President Donald Trump has renewed his push to bring Greenland under American control and has now warned that countries opposing the move could face heavy trade penalties. For the first time, Trump has directly connected the Greenland issue with tariffs, signalling that economic pressure may be used to gain support.
He said countries must stand with the United States on Greenland or risk facing high tariffs, framing the issue as a global test of loyalty to US security interests.
What Does Trump Say About Greenland’s Importance to US Security?
Trump has repeatedly argued that Greenland is critical to America’s national security due to its strategic position in the Arctic and its rich natural resources. He believes US control of the island would help counter the growing presence of Russia and China in the region.
“I may put a tariff on countries if they don’t go along with Greenland, because we need Greenland for national security,” Trump said. Greenland is a self-governing territory under Denmark and is located between North America and the Arctic Ocean, making it geopolitically significant.
How Have Denmark and European Countries Responded?
Denmark has firmly rejected Trump’s demand to sell or hand over Greenland. Most European nations have also opposed the idea, stressing respect for Danish sovereignty.
To reinforce security in the region, countries such as France and Germany have sent troops to Greenland, backing Denmark and other NATO allies against any forced takeover.
What Did Trump Say About Using Tariffs as Pressure?
Speaking at an event focused on rural health care, Trump unexpectedly returned to the Greenland issue. He mentioned that European partners had already been warned about possible tariffs on pharmaceutical products.
“I may do that for Greenland, too,” Trump added. “I may put a tariff on countries if they don’t go along with Greenland, because we need Greenland for national security. So I may do that.” His comments suggest tariffs could become a central tool in pushing his Greenland agenda.
Is the US Discussing Greenland With NATO?
Trump confirmed that talks are taking place with NATO regarding Greenland’s strategic role. He stressed that losing access to the island would weaken America’s defence planning.
“We need Greenland for national security very badly. If we don’t have it, we have a big hole in national security, especially when it comes to what we’re doing in terms of the Golden Dome,” he said.
What Does This Mean for US Relations With Its Allies?
Trump’s renewed threats highlight rising tensions between the US and its European allies. While Trump sees Greenland as a security necessity, Denmark and other NATO partners remain strongly opposed, raising concerns about trade disputes and diplomatic fallout in the coming months.
