Donald Trump has refused to rule out using military force to take control of Greenland. His comments have sharply increased tensions between the United States, Denmark, and other European allies.
Trump has also applied economic pressure. He announced new tariffs on several European countries that support Denmark’s control of Greenland. These tariffs are expected to rise in the coming months and would remain until an agreement is reached. European leaders worry this dispute could weaken unity inside NATO.
The U.S. administration says Greenland is critical for national security. Its location gives access to the Arctic, where Russia and China are expanding their influence. The island also hosts NATO bases and contains valuable resources, including rare earth minerals and energy supplies.
Trump has warned that the United States could rethink its role in NATO if it is blocked from gaining control of Greenland. He argues that the alliance should do more to support American interests and says the U.S. has carried much of NATO’s burden.
The standoff has unsettled European governments and financial markets. As talks continue, there is growing concern about the future of relations between the U.S. and Europe, and about the long-term stability of NATO.