U.S. President Donald Trump has reignited tensions with European allies after saying he may impose tariffs on countries that refuse to support U.S. control of Greenland. Trump has repeatedly argued that the Arctic territory is vital to U.S. national security and has described any alternative outcome as unacceptable.
The comments came as U.S. lawmakers traveled to Denmark to ease diplomatic strain, while Danish and Greenlandic officials reiterated that Greenland’s future is a matter for Denmark and Greenland alone. Denmark has also announced plans to increase its military presence in the region alongside allies.
While the White House has justified its stance by citing concerns about China and Russia’s interest in Greenland’s resources, members of Congress have pushed back, emphasizing long-standing alliances and public opposition to a U.S. takeover. Greenlandic leaders and Indigenous representatives have also strongly rejected the idea, warning against renewed colonization and outside pressure.