President Trump has escalated tensions between the US and European allies by announcing tariffs on eight European countries. The move was triggered by demands to transfer Greenland under US control, despite Denmark’s firm refusal.
Historically, the US has repeatedly tried to buy Greenland: first in 1867, then in 1946 and 2019. After winning the 2024 election, Trump called control over the island "an absolute necessity for national security." In response, Denmark and other EU nations strengthened their Arctic presence and stated that only Greenland’s residents and Danish authorities should decide the island’s fate.
Trump imposed tariffs of 10% (rising to 25% in several months) on Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Finland. The only way to lift the tariffs would be the transfer of Greenland to the US. European leaders rejected Trump’s ultimatum, with Sweden’s prime minister declaring: "We will not allow ourselves to be blackmailed."
This escalation could lead to a protracted trade war between the EU and the US. European countries are responding by strengthening cooperation among northern and central states, while southern countries like Italy and Spain are distancing themselves. Further escalation risks undermining NATO’s structure and benefiting China and Russia.
Trump’s efforts to establish a "peace council" for global security, without inclusivity, have been rebuffed by the EU and Israel. The political crisis raises the question: who will lead a united Europe, and will the West remain cohesive in the face of new challenges?
