19-01-2026

Trump's Greenland tariffs spark transatlantic crisis

Date: 19-01-2026
Sources: bbc.com: 1 | cbsnews.com: 3 | cnbc.com: 3 | economist.com: 4 | edition.cnn.com: 2 | foxnews.com: 1 | news.sky.com: 4 | nypost.com: 1 | nytimes.com: 1 | scmp.com: 1 | straitstimes.com: 1
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Image Source:

Source: foxnews.com

Image content: The image depicts a group of people protesting outside in the snow. 1. The main subject or scene shown is a protest or demonstration. 2. The visible elements include people wearing winter clothing, holding signs that read "GREENLAND IS NOT FOR SALE!", and a red building with a black roof in the background. 3. The news-worthy element is the protest itself, with the signs indicating opposition to the sale of Greenland. A man holds a red sign reading "GREENLAND IS NOT FOR SALE!" amidst a crowd of people. The background features a red house with a black roof and snowy surroundings. Other protesters are visible, some holding similar signs.

Summary

US President Donald Trump's threat to impose 10% tariffs on eight European countries unless they support his plan to acquire Greenland has sparked a major transatlantic crisis, with European leaders condemning the move as bullying and a threat to NATO unity.

Key Points

  • Trump threatens 10% tariffs on Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and UK unless they support US acquisition of Greenland
  • European leaders issue joint statement condemning tariffs and affirming commitment to Arctic security and sovereignty
  • Tariffs spark concerns about potential impact on transatlantic relations, global economy, and NATO unity
  • EU considers retaliatory measures, including tariffs worth $107 billion and restrictions on US technology companies
  • China positions itself as reliable trade partner and supporter of multilateralism, contrasting with US under Trump

Articles in this Cluster

'Europe won't be blackmailed,' Danish PM says in wake of Trump Greenland threats

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has stated that 'Europe won't be blackmailed' by Donald Trump's threat to impose tariffs on eight allied nations if they oppose his proposed takeover of Greenland. The US president has suggested that he will impose a 10% levy on goods from Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and the UK if they do not support his plan. Frederiksen and other European leaders have issued a joint statement expressing their solidarity with Denmark and Greenland, and stressing their commitment to strengthening Arctic security as a shared transatlantic interest. The leaders have also emphasized their commitment to the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. Trump's threat has been met with widespread criticism, with many viewing it as an attempt to bully European nations. The situation has sparked concerns about the potential impact on transatlantic relations and the risk of a trade war.
Entities: Mette Frederiksen, Donald Trump, Greenland, Denmark, United StatesTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Europeans reeling as Trump threatens tariffs on 8 countries over Greenland dispute - CBS News

European countries are reeling after President Trump announced a 10% tariff on eight countries, including Denmark, Norway, and the UK, over their opposition to US control of Greenland. The move has been widely criticized by European leaders, who see it as a threat to transatlantic relations and a benefit to China and Russia. The eight countries issued a joint statement condemning the tariffs and affirming their commitment to Arctic security. Trump's decision has also been criticized domestically, with Democratic senators arguing that it will only benefit America's adversaries. The tariffs have sparked concerns about the potential impact on US-European relations and the global economy.
Entities: Donald Trump, Greenland, Denmark, NATO, European UnionTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Transcript: Rep. Mike Turner on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Jan. 18, 2026 - CBS News

Rep. Mike Turner, a GOP Congressman from Ohio and head of the US delegation to NATO's Parliamentary Assembly, discusses the US President's threat to escalate tariffs against NATO allies unless they hand over Greenland. Turner expresses concern that the President's actions are putting the NATO alliance at risk and benefiting Russia. He emphasizes that the President's authority to impose tariffs is limited and that using military force to seize territory from a NATO country is problematic. Turner also highlights the importance of the NATO alliance and the potential consequences of the President's actions on the alliance and US foreign policy.
Entities: Rep. Mike Turner, Margaret Brennan, NATO, Greenland, United StatesTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Transcript: Sen. Mark Warner on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Jan. 18, 2026 - CBS News

Senator Mark Warner discusses the Trump administration's actions on trade and national security with Margaret Brennan on 'Face the Nation'. Warner expresses concern over the president's use of tariffs, particularly against NATO allies, and the potential consequences for global stability. He also touches on the situation in Iran, Venezuela, and Greenland, criticizing the administration's chaotic approach and its impact on international relations.
Entities: Mark Warner, Margaret Brennan, Donald Trump, Canada, ChinaTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: critique

Asia markets slip as investors assess Greenland and China dataStock Chart Icon

Asia-Pacific markets mostly fell on Monday as investors assessed threats from the Trump administration toward Greenland and reviewed key economic data from China. China's fourth-quarter GDP numbers and December figures for retail sales, urban investment, and industrial output were released. Japan's Nikkei 225 lost 0.65%, while South Korea's Kospi bucked the trend, rising 1.32%. Yields on long-term Japanese Government Bonds hit record highs, with the 10-year JGB yield reaching 2.279%. The tensions between the US and European leaders over Greenland continued, with Trump threatening tariffs on European countries and demanding control of Greenland.
Entities: Asia-Pacific, China, Greenland, Donald Trump, DenmarkTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

CNBC Daily Open: Trump's Greenland tariffs draw the EU into the fray

The article discusses US President Donald Trump's decision to impose tariffs on eight NATO nations, including Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Finland, unless a deal is reached for the US to 'buy' Greenland. European leaders have responded swiftly, and the move threatens to derail the EU-US trade agreement. The tariffs could lead to a trade war between the US and Europe, increasing market volatility. The World Economic Forum is set to begin in Davos, where world leaders, including Trump, will convene to discuss trade, security, and geopolitical tensions.
Entities: Donald Trump, Greenland, NATO, Denmark, NorwayTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

European markets: Stoxx 600, FTSE, DAX, CAC, Davos WEF week

European stocks opened lower on Monday as traders reacted to U.S. President Donald Trump's threat to hike tariffs on several European countries if they oppose his bid to buy Greenland. The pan-European Stoxx 600 fell about 1%, with every sector in negative territory. Trump's proposed tariffs would target eight NATO members, including Denmark, Norway, and the U.K. European leaders deemed the tariffs 'unacceptable' and vowed to stand behind Denmark. The market slump comes ahead of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, where Trump is due to address the Forum on Wednesday.
Entities: Donald Trump, Greenland, Europe, United States, DavosTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

As divisions over Greenland grow, Europe examines its options

The article discusses the growing divisions between Europe and the US over Greenland, triggered by Donald Trump's threat to impose tariffs on European countries that sent troops to Greenland. European leaders, including Emmanuel Macron and Ursula von der Leyen, have expressed outrage and indignation at the US's actions, which they see as bullying and an attempt to seize another NATO member's sovereign territory. The article suggests that Europe is examining its options for responding to the crisis, with the possibility of an emergency summit to discuss a coherent response.
Entities: Donald Trump, Europe, Greenland, Emmanuel Macron, Ursula von der LeyenTone: analyticalSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Europe has three options for defending Greenland

The article discusses the implications of Greenland's growing importance and the responses of various countries.
Entities: Europe, Greenland, USTone: neutralSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

The president’s hunger for Greenland is tearing NATO apart

The article discusses the escalating tensions within NATO due to US President Donald Trump's desire to annex Greenland, a Danish territory. Trump threatened to impose 10% tariffs on imports from eight European countries that had sent troops to Greenland, prompting European leaders to vow not to be bullied. The move has sparked a row within NATO and forced Europeans to re-examine their options for defending Greenland. The article highlights the divisions within Europe and the potential consequences of Trump's actions, including the impact on European unity and the future of NATO.
Entities: Donald Trump, Greenland, NATO, Europe, DenmarkTone: analyticalSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

The White House weighs how to acquire Greenland

The White House is considering acquiring Greenland, with President Donald Trump stating it is necessary for national security. Trump's allies, including Stephen Miller, have amplified the message, arguing that American control of Greenland is necessary to secure the Arctic and defend NATO's interests. Leaders in Greenland and Denmark are in shock, questioning whether Trump is serious about the proposal. The move comes after Trump's recent actions in Venezuela, where he snatched Nicolás Maduro, the country's strongman leader.
Entities: Donald Trump, Greenland, Nicolás Maduro, Venezuela, Stephen MillerTone: analyticalSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Analysis: Who can save NATO from Trump as he escalates bid to grab Greenland? | CNN PoliticsClose icon

The article discusses the potential crisis facing NATO due to President Donald Trump's threat to impose tariffs on US allies that oppose his bid to acquire Greenland. Trump's aggressive demands have sparked alarm on both sides of the Atlantic, with European leaders responding with steely unity. The article highlights the concerns of various politicians, including Republicans in Congress, about Trump's actions and their potential consequences for NATO and global stability. Trump's fixation on Greenland is seen as a personal obsession that risks destroying NATO and its Article 5 mutual defense clause. The article also notes that some Republicans are planning to challenge Trump's actions, including introducing a new war powers resolution on Greenland.
Entities: Donald Trump, NATO, Greenland, European Union, CongressTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Protesters across several countries condemn Iran crackdown | CNN

The article reports on global protests condemning Iran's crackdown on anti-government demonstrations. Protesters in several countries rallied to denounce the deadly violence, while other news stories covered include wildfires in Chile, a marathon in extreme cold in Russia, and tensions between the US and Denmark over Greenland.
Entities: Iran, Protesters, Chile, Russia, DenmarkTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Trump threatens 10% tariffs over Greenland as Europeans condemn pressure | Fox News

European leaders have condemned President Donald Trump's threat to impose 10% tariffs on Denmark and other European nations unless a deal is reached for the US to acquire Greenland, a semiautonomous Danish territory. The leaders, including Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and the UK, issued a joint statement warning that tariff threats undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral. Trump's threat was made on his Truth Social platform, where he said the tariffs would go into effect on February 2 and could rise to 25% on June 1. Greenland's leaders have firmly rejected any suggestion that the territory's future or sovereignty is open to negotiation, with Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen stating that Greenland is 'not for sale' and will not be owned or governed by the US. The move has been widely criticized by European leaders, with some warning that it could benefit Russia and China.
Entities: Donald Trump, Greenland, Denmark, European Union, NATOTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Greenland crisis: Unleashing Europe's most powerful trade weapon on the US was previously unthinkable - not anymore | World News | Sky News

The article discusses the escalating transatlantic crisis between the EU and the US over President Trump's threat to impose tariffs on European countries, including the UK, in response to their refusal to sell Greenland to the US. EU ambassadors met in Brussels to discuss possible responses, with French President Emmanuel Macron pushing for the strongest response: triggering the EU's anti-coercion instrument, which would allow the EU to impose retaliatory tariffs on the US. Other options being considered include delaying the ratification of the EU-US trade deal and continuing with diplomacy. The EU is weighing its response carefully, as it prepares for the World Economic Forum in Davos, where European leaders will meet with Trump.
Entities: European Union, United States, Greenland, Donald Trump, Emmanuel MacronTone: urgentSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

'Prominent' Chinese super-embassy sends 'certain message', US Speaker Mike Johnson says | US News | Sky News

US House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed concerns over China's plan to establish a 'super-embassy' in London, stating it sends a 'certain message' and symbolizes China's growing presence. Johnson wished the US had acquired the site instead, citing its strategic location near sensitive communication cables. He also discussed trade links with China, the US-UK special relationship, and other topics including military action in Greenland and ICE operations in Minneapolis.
Entities: Mike Johnson, China, US, London, Royal Mint CourtTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

The misunderstanding that may have triggered Trump's latest Greenland threat | Politics News | Sky News

The article discusses the recent tensions between the US and European allies over Greenland, triggered by President Trump's threat to impose 10% tariffs on eight European countries. The UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, is attempting to negotiate with Trump to resolve the issue, while reiterating the UK's commitment to Denmark's sovereignty over Greenland. The situation is considered a serious crisis in transatlantic relations, with potential implications for NATO and global security. The article analyzes the possible reasons behind Trump's move, including a potential misunderstanding about a recent NATO exercise in Greenland, and the implications of a further escalation.
Entities: Donald Trump, Sir Keir Starmer, Greenland, Denmark, NATOTone: analyticalSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Trump is not bluffing, Greenland situation is critical for Europe and NATO | US News | Sky News

The article discusses the escalating tensions between the US, EU, and Denmark over Greenland, with President Trump reportedly serious about acquiring the territory. The Danish government is open to dialogue but refuses to cede sovereignty. The situation is critical for Europe and NATO, with implications for regional security and the global balance of power. The article highlights the strategic importance of Greenland, the EU's reluctance to capitulate to Trump's demands, and the awkwardness of the situation for the UK, which has tried to maintain a positive relationship with Trump.
Entities: Donald Trump, Greenland, EU, Denmark, NATOTone: analyticalSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Trump says 'it will be done' on getting 'Russian threat' away from Greenland | New York Post

Former President Donald Trump stated on social media that Denmark has failed to address the 'Russian threat' near Greenland and claimed he would resolve the issue. Trump has long been interested in acquiring Greenland, despite Denmark and Greenland's leaders insisting it is not for sale. Trump threatened to impose tariffs on European allies until the US is allowed to buy Greenland, citing US security interests due to the presence of China and Russia.
Entities: Donald Trump, Denmark, Greenland, Russia, ChinaTone: positiveSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

European Union Officials Lean Toward Negotiating, Not Retaliating, Over Trump Tariff Threat - The New York Times

European Union leaders are leaning towards negotiating with the US over President Trump's threat to impose tariffs if Greenland is not sold to the US. The EU is committed to protecting Greenland and is considering retaliatory measures, including tariffs worth $107 billion and restrictions on US technology companies. EU leaders will meet this week to discuss their response, with some members suggesting the use of an 'anti-coercion instrument' to counter US pressure. The US has shown no signs of backing down, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent saying that European leaders will eventually understand that US control of Greenland is 'best for Greenland, best for Europe and best for the United States'.
Entities: European Union, President Trump, Greenland, United States, DenmarkTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

China readies Davos sales pitch as US grants Beijing window of opportunity | South China Morning Post

As the World Economic Forum begins in Davos, China is preparing to present itself as a reliable trade partner and supporter of multilateralism, contrasting its stance with the United States under President Donald Trump. China's Vice-Premier He Lifeng is set to deliver a keynote address, highlighting Beijing's stability and commitment to international norms, while Trump's unilateral actions have drawn widespread criticism, giving China an opportunity to position itself as a responsible global player.
Entities: China, Davos, World Economic Forum, United States, President Donald TrumpTone: analyticalSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

British PM Starmer tells Trump tariffs on allies over Greenland are ‘wrong’ | The Straits Times

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke to US President Donald Trump on January 18, reiterating his position that applying tariffs on allies for pursuing collective security in NATO is wrong, specifically in relation to Greenland. Starmer had previously spoken to Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte. The call comes amid concerns over Trump's vow to impose tariffs on Europe over Greenland.
Entities: Keir Starmer, Donald Trump, Greenland, NATO, DenmarkTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform