Tariff Schedule Targets Eight NATO Nations The United States will levy a 10 percent duty on imports from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Finland beginning February 1, with a planned increase to 25 percent on June 1 if no agreement is reached [1][2]. The measure is presented as an “emergency” action to force negotiations over Greenland, and the tariffs remain in effect until a “complete and total purchase” is secured [2]. Treasury officials argue the step demonstrates U.S. leverage, while European leaders label it an unprecedented economic coercion [1].

Goal Is to Leverage Greenland Acquisition President Trump framed the tariffs as a bargaining chip to acquire Greenland, a semi‑autonomous Danish territory, citing national‑security and Arctic‑defense rationales [1][2]. Administration spokespeople linked control of Greenland to missile‑defense positioning and broader access to Arctic resources [2]. Critics note the move resembles territorial aggression and could undermine established post‑World‑War‑II security arrangements [1].

Eight NATO Allies Issue Joint Condemnation Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and the United Kingdom released a joint statement denouncing the tariffs and pledging coordinated response [2]. The allies emphasized that Arctic security is a shared trans‑Atlantic interest and warned that the United States’ actions risk fracturing NATO’s collective defense commitment [1][2]. Analysts described the episode as the alliance’s most serious crisis since its founding [1].

Greenland Government and Public Reject US Offer Greenland’s prime minister publicly declared the island “not for sale” and rejected any U.S. ownership proposal [2]. Polling cited by both outlets shows a clear majority of Greenlandic residents oppose joining the United States, reinforcing the local government’s stance [2]. The rejection adds diplomatic pressure on Washington as it pursues the tariff strategy [1].

Tariffs Threaten Ongoing US‑EU Trade Negotiations European Union ambassadors convened emergency consultations, warning that the tariffs could derail a pending U.S.–EU trade and tax agreement awaiting ratification [1]. French President Macron and other EU leaders warned of “consequences” for transatlantic economic ties if the pressure campaign continues [1]. The potential collapse of the broader trade deal compounds the diplomatic fallout from the Greenland dispute [2].