Trump Considers Tariffs Over Greenland Control
September 2023
Increasing Tensions over Greenland
COPENHAGEN, Denmark — U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested that he may impose tariffs on countries that do not support U.S. claims to Greenland. This pronouncement came amid a bipartisan Congressional delegation aiming to alleviate rising tensions in Denmark.
The Push for U.S. Control
For months, Trump has advocated for U.S. control over Greenland, an autonomous territory of NATO ally Denmark. He recently stated that it would be “unacceptable” for the Arctic island to remain outside U.S. governance.
Talk of Tariffs
During an event at the White House discussing rural health care, Trump recounted how he previously threatened European allies with tariffs on pharmaceuticals. He indicated this tactic might extend to Greenland, declaring, “I may put a tariff on countries if they don’t go along with Greenland, because we need Greenland for national security.”
A New Approach
This mention of tariffs in relation to Greenland marks a shift in Trump’s strategy, as he had not previously indicated a willingness to use economic pressure in this context.
Diplomatic Engagement
Earlier this week, the foreign ministers of Denmark and Greenland convened in Washington with U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. While this meeting did not resolve existing tensions, it did result in an agreement to form a working group to address the issue.
Diverging Views
Despite the establishment of this working group, Denmark and the White House offered contrasting public interpretations of its purpose, drawing attention to significant differences in their perspectives on Greenland’s status.
The European Response
European leaders have consistently emphasized that decisions regarding Greenland should be made solely by Denmark and its autonomous territory. In response to the growing discourse, Denmark announced it would bolster its military presence in Greenland in collaboration with its allies, underscoring its commitment to safeguarding the territory.
