In an unusually strong reaction to President Donald Trump’s announcement that he would impose tariffs on eight European countries over their opposition to a U.S. push to secure Greenland, key Western allies warned that such threats “undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral.”
In a joint statement, NATO allies Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Finland voiced solidarity with Denmark, which controls the semi-autonomous Arctic island that Washington views as strategic to U.S. national security interests.
“We stand in full solidarity with the Kingdom of Denmark and the people of Greenland,” the European countries said.
“Building on the process begun last week, we stand ready to engage in dialogue based on the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity, which we firmly uphold. Tariff threats undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral.”
Territorial integrity and sovereignty are fundamental principles of international law.
They are essential for Europe and for the international community as a whole.
We have consistently underlined our shared transatlantic interest in peace and security in the Arctic, including…
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) January 17, 2026
Trump argued in a statement on Saturday that securing control of Greenland is critical to the effective functioning of America’s most advanced defense systems in the face of emerging challenges.
He cited the danger posed by Chinese and Russian presence on the island.
Trump also criticized the actions of the European countries that recently took part in a military exercise in Greenland, but the eight nations said the exercise, dubbed “Arctic Endurance,” posed “no threat to anyone.”
Under Trump’s plan, the eight European countries would face an additional 10% tariff beginning next month. If the situation persists, the tariffs could escalate to 25% on June 1.
Kiran Asim is a writer who covers the U.S., Europe, South Asia, and the Middle East. Her reports and analyses look at the geostrategic issues and contemporary developments and their economic and political implications. She also writes about society and education.
