SUNTV Global Channel | January 18, 2026 | World News
US President Donald Trump has escalated tensions with Europe after threatening to impose sweeping tariffs of up to 25 percent on several European countries in a renewed push to acquire Greenland, a self-governing Danish territory rich in strategic minerals.
Trump’s threat came amid mass protests in Greenland and Denmark, where thousands of demonstrators took to the streets to reject any attempt by the United States to take control of the Arctic island.
In a post on his Truth Social platform on Saturday, Trump announced that from February 1, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland would face a 10 percent tariff on all exports to the United States. He added that the levy would rise to 25 percent from June 1, 2026, remaining in force until a deal is reached for the “complete and total purchase of Greenland.”
“These countries are playing a very dangerous game,” Trump wrote, claiming the measures were necessary to protect “global peace and security.” He added that he was “immediately open to negotiation with Denmark and/or any of these countries.”
The announcement has triggered sharp reactions across Europe. Denmark described the move as a “surprise,” while British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called it “completely wrong.” French President Emmanuel Macron said tariff threats were “unacceptable and have no place in this context,” as Sweden’s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson warned that Europe would not be intimidated.
European Union leaders issued a joint statement declaring the bloc’s “full solidarity with Denmark and the people of Greenland,” as EU ambassadors convened an emergency meeting in Brussels.
In Greenland’s capital Nuuk, thousands of protesters, including Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen, waved Greenlandic flags and chanted slogans such as “Hands off Greenland” and “Greenland for Greenlanders.” Many wore caps reading “Make America Go Away,” a pointed rebuke of Trump’s campaign slogan.
“We don’t want Trump invading Greenland,” said nurse Paarniq Larsen Strum, describing the situation as “nerve-wracking.” Protest organiser Avijaja Rosing-Olsen said Greenlanders were demanding respect for their right to self-determination.
Similar demonstrations were held in Copenhagen and other Danish cities, with protesters insisting that Greenland is not for sale and warning against bullying by an ally.
Trump has repeatedly argued that the United States needs Greenland for “national security,” alleging—without evidence—that China and Russia are seeking control of the Arctic region. While both countries have expanded their presence in the Arctic, neither has laid claim to Greenland.
Meanwhile, US lawmakers visiting Copenhagen distanced themselves from the president’s stance. A delegation led by Senator Chris Coons said Trump’s position does not reflect the views of most Americans.
Polls also show overwhelming opposition within Greenland itself, with 85 percent of residents rejecting the idea of joining the United States, and only six percent in favour.
As diplomatic tensions rise, analysts warn that Trump’s tariff threat risks creating one of the most serious rifts in NATO history, putting long-standing transatlantic alliances under severe strain.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor developments as Europe prepares a coordinated response and protests across Greenland gather momentum.
