Danish PM Stands Firm Against Trump's Greenland Tariff Threats

Mon Jan 19 2026 17:44:16 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In response to President Trump's threat to impose tariffs on European allies opposing his proposed Greenland acquisition, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen declares that 'Europe won't be blackmailed.'

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has firmly rejected President Trump's threats of tariffs on European nations in retaliation for their opposition to the U.S. acquisition of Greenland. Frederiksen emphasized Europe's commitment to not being coerced and stressed the importance of transatlantic relations. The proposed tariffs would impact goods from several allied countries, including Denmark, and could escalate to 25% if negotiations do not proceed as Trump desires. European leaders have expressed solidarity with Denmark and Greenland amidst rising tensions.

Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has stated that 'Europe won't be blackmailed' regarding Donald Trump's tariff threats over Greenland. Trump has proclaimed he will impose a new 10% tariff on goods from several allied nations if they oppose his plans to acquire the autonomous territory, highlighting tensions in transatlantic relations.

Frederiksen, along with other European leaders, released a joint statement emphasizing that the tariffs could 'undermine' relations and lead to a 'dangerous downward spiral.' The statement comes in the context of Trump's insistence that Greenland is critical for U.S. security, saying that NATO has pressured Denmark for years to remove potential security threats from the territory.

Trump's proposed tariffs would specifically target Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and the UK. Initially set to start on February 1, the tariffs could rise to 25% by June. Trump stated that the tariffs would remain in place until a deal for the 'complete and total' purchase of Greenland is reached.

In their joint declaration, European leaders reiterated their full support for Denmark and the people of Greenland, stressing their commitment to strengthening Arctic security as part of NATO. They reaffirmed their stance on sovereignty and territorial integrity, a core principle of international law.

Frederiksen further reiterated on social media that Europe seeks cooperation and will not succumb to coercive tactics, calling for a firm stance on the fundamental values of the European community.

Public sentiment in both Denmark and Greenland shows significant opposition to Trump's acquisition plans, with recent demonstrations underscoring this public anger. Greenland’s representative to the U.S. noted a mere 6% approval for being part of the U.S., alongside polls indicating that most Americans oppose Trump's intentions.

The situation draws attention to the fragile state of international relations as leaders prepare for the upcoming World Economic Forum in Davos, where further discussions on these tensions are expected.