Tariff Threats Couple With Sovereignty Demands President Trump announced a 10 % import duty on eight NATO allies—Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Finland—effective February 1, with a planned rise to 25 % by June if Greenland negotiations stall [1][2][3]. The tariffs are framed as leverage to force a sale of Greenland, a territory Denmark insists is not for sale [1][2][3]. European nations have responded with diplomatic protests, warning the move could damage long‑standing alliances and Arctic security cooperation [2][3].

Mass Demonstrations Sweep Nuuk, Copenhagen and Nunavut Thousands marched through Nuuk, representing roughly a quarter of the city’s population, chanting “Greenland is not for sale” and waving national flags; Prime Minister Jens‑Frederik Nielsen addressed the crowd [2][3][4][5]. Parallel rallies in Copenhagen and solidarity protests in Canada’s Inuit‑governed Nunavut underscored broad regional opposition [2][4][5]. Organizers highlighted cultural heritage, self‑determination and the strategic value of Greenland, noting polls show a strong majority against U.S. annexation [3].

Bipartisan U.S. Delegation Engages Allies Amid Tensions A mixed‑party congressional team led by Senator Chris Coons, joined by Senators Thom Tillis and Lisa Murkowski, visited Copenhagen and Greenland to discuss Arctic security and convey bipartisan concern over the tariff‑driven acquisition plan [2][3]. The delegation described Trump’s rhetoric as “not constructive” and urged diplomatic channels, while Danish and European officials warned that any forced purchase would jeopardize NATO cohesion and regional stability [2][3].

Divergent Political Moves Highlight Internal U.S. Dynamics Trump nominated the PayPal co‑founder as ambassador to Denmark, linking the appointment to a broader “Praxis” vision for an internet‑native presence on Greenland [1]. Separate reports note a late‑night text from Trump to Norway’s prime minister about the Nobel Peace Prize—a misstep given Norway does not award the prize [1]. Germany’s far‑right AFD leader cultivated ties with Trump, criticizing the tariff threats as violations of international law, while Denmark altered its royal coat of arms to feature Greenland symbols, a symbolic response absent from other outlets [1].