U.S. President Trump previously stated that a 10% tariff would be imposed on all goods exported to the United States from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland starting February 1. The tariff rate would increase to 25% starting June 1 until an agreement on the "complete and outright purchase of Greenland" is reached.
On the 17th local time, U.S. President Trump stated that a 10% tariff would be imposed on all goods exported to the United States from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland starting February 1. The tariff rate would increase to 25% starting June 1 until an agreement on the "complete and outright purchase of Greenland" is reached. Subsequently, multiple countries issued statements in response.
Sweden: We Will Not Be Blackmailed
Swedish Prime Minister Kristersson issued a written statement on the same day, stating, "We will not be blackmailed. Only Denmark and Greenland can decide issues involving Denmark and Greenland."
In the statement, Kristersson said, "I will always defend my country and our allies. This is an internal matter of the EU, involving more countries than those currently listed." Sweden stated that it is currently engaged in intensive consultations with other EU countries, Norway, and the UK to reach a unified response.
Denmark: U.S. Tariff Policy "Surprising"
Danish Foreign Minister Rasmussen described the tariff policy announced by U.S. President Trump as "surprising" on the same day, stating that Denmark is maintaining close dialogue with the EU.
In a written statement, Rasmussen said, "Trump's statement is surprising. His reference to increasing military presence in Greenland aims to strengthen security in the Arctic region." "We are in close contact with the European Commission and other partners regarding this matter."
Danish Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Polson also issued a statement on social media that day, stating, 'The threats made by US President Trump against Denmark, Greenland, and our NATO allies are completely unacceptable.'
He expressed gratitude for the statements supporting Denmark from various parties. He emphasized, 'International law and national territorial sovereignty are crucial to international peace and security. We must defend this principle at the European level.'
Norway: Threats Should Not Exist Among Allies
Norwegian Prime Minister Støre posted on social media that day, pointing out that threats should not exist among allies. He stated, 'Norway’s position is firm: Greenland is part of Denmark. Norway fully supports Denmark's sovereignty.' Støre also noted that there is broad consensus within NATO on strengthening security in the Arctic region, including Greenland.
Norwegian Foreign Minister Eide also stated that day, 'There is widespread agreement within NATO on the need to strengthen security in the Arctic region, including Greenland. We believe that tariff issues should not be discussed here.'
France: Tariff Threats Are Unacceptable
French President Macron stated on social media that day that the tariff threats issued by US President Trump after France supported Greenland were 'unacceptable.'
He said, 'If these threats are confirmed, European countries will respond in a united and coordinated manner. We will defend Europe’s sovereignty.' Macron also stated that he would communicate with other European partners regarding this matter.
Germany: Will Take Countermeasures with European Partners
German government spokesperson Stefan Cornelius stated on the same day, "The German government has taken note of the statements by the US President and is in close consultations with European partners. We will jointly decide on appropriate countermeasures at the appropriate time."
United Kingdom: US Tariff Increase Plan 'Completely Wrong'
UK Prime Minister Starmer issued a statement on the same day stating that the US threat to impose additional tariffs on multiple European countries is 'completely wrong.'
Starmer said, "Imposing tariffs on allies who contribute to the collective security of NATO members is completely wrong. We will certainly address this matter directly with the US government."
Starmer also emphasized that the UK's position on Greenland is very clear – it is part of Denmark, and its future should be decided jointly by the people of Greenland and the people of Denmark.
Netherlands: Will Consult with EU Partners on Countermeasures
Dutch Foreign Minister Van Wiel posted on social media that the Netherlands has taken note of US President Trump’s statement regarding tariffs. The Netherlands is in close contact with the European Commission and its partners to discuss countermeasures.
Finland: Issues Should Be Resolved Through Dialogue
Finnish President Alexander Stubb posted on social media that day, pointing out that issues among allies should be resolved through dialogue rather than pressure. He said, "Tariffs will harm transatlantic relations and could lead to further deterioration."
EU: Tariffs Will Undermine Transatlantic Relations
In addition, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Costa issued a joint statement on social media stating that the imposition of tariffs will undermine transatlantic relations and could trigger a dangerous vicious cycle. Europe will remain united, act in coordination, and is committed to safeguarding its sovereignty.
Von der Leyen expressed that the EU stands fully in solidarity with the people of Denmark and Greenland and is committed to building on the dialogue initiated earlier between Denmark and the United States. Von der Leyen reiterated that territorial integrity and sovereignty are fundamental principles of international law, crucial for Europe and the entire international community.
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