20-01-2026

US-Europe Tensions Escalate Over Greenland

Date: 20-01-2026
Sources: bbc.com: 5 | cbsnews.com: 2 | cnbc.com: 6 | economist.com: 3 | edition.cnn.com: 5 | foxnews.com: 2 | france24.com: 2 | news.sky.com: 2 | nypost.com: 2 | scmp.com: 1
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Image Source:

Source: foxnews.com

Image content: The image shows two men, likely Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump, seated in chairs on either side of a small table. They are positioned in front of a blue backdrop with white text that reads "PURSUING PEACE" and "ALASKA 2025." The description of the image is as follows: 1. The main subject or scene shown is two men, likely prominent figures, seated in a formal setting. 2. The visible people are two men dressed in suits, with one wearing a red tie and the other also wearing a red tie, and objects include two chairs, a small table with glasses and papers, and a blue backdrop with text. 3. The context appears to be a diplomatic or political event. The image depicts two men in suits seated on either side of a small table in front of a blue backdrop with the text "PURSUING PEACE" and "ALASKA 2025." The men are dressed formally, with both wearing red ties. A

Summary

The cluster of news articles revolves around the escalating tensions between the US and Europe, particularly over US President Donald Trump's interest in acquiring Greenland, a Danish territory. Trump's threats to impose tariffs on European countries have sparked a row within NATO, raised concerns about the alliance's unity, and prompted Europe to consider retaliatory measures.

Key Points

  • Trump's interest in acquiring Greenland has caused a rift between the US and European NATO allies
  • Europe is considering retaliatory tariffs and economic counter-measures against the US
  • The situation has raised concerns about NATO's unity and Europe's defense
  • Russia and China are watching the developments with interest, potentially benefiting from the rift
  • The crisis has sparked a debate about the Western Alliance's strategy to secure Greenland against growing Chinese and Russian influence

Articles in this Cluster

'Europe is at a total loss': Russia gloats over Greenland tensions

The article discusses how Russia is reacting to US President Donald Trump's interest in annexing Greenland. Contrary to expectations, the Russian government is praising Trump and criticizing European leaders who oppose the annexation. Russia sees Trump's actions as a way to weaken the transatlantic alliance and potentially split NATO, which is viewed as a positive development for Moscow. The article highlights how Rossiyskaya Gazeta, the Russian government newspaper, has written articles encouraging Trump to push ahead with his plans to annex Greenland, suggesting it would be a historic achievement for the US and boost Trump's legacy.
Entities: Donald Trump, Russia, Greenland, NATO, EuropeTone: analyticalSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

Greenland: Europe is ditching its softly-softly approach to Trump

The article discusses how Europe is changing its approach to dealing with Donald Trump after he suggested that the US should acquire Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark. European leaders are now adopting a more assertive stance, considering retaliatory measures such as tariffs on US goods if Trump follows through on his threats. The EU is trying to negotiate a compromise while also preparing for potential consequences, including the impact on transatlantic relations and global trade. The situation has raised concerns about US security guarantees and the potential for escalation.
Entities: Donald Trump, Greenland, Denmark, Europe, USTone: analyticalSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Greenland 'will stay Greenland', former Trump adviser declares

Former US President Donald Trump's adviser Gary Cohn has stated that Greenland will remain Danish and not be acquired by the US, despite Trump's recent threats and interests in the territory. Cohn, who served as director of the White House National Economic Council under Trump, linked the US interest in Greenland to its vast supplies of rare earth minerals critical for AI and quantum computing development. Cohn suggested that Trump's comments may be part of a negotiation tactic to secure a larger US military presence and an 'offtake' agreement for Greenland's minerals. The article discusses the geopolitical implications of Trump's actions and the importance of rare earth minerals for emerging technologies.
Entities: Gary Cohn, Donald Trump, Greenland, US, NatoTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Trump says he will '100%' carry out Greenland tariffs threat, as EU vows to protect its interests

US President Donald Trump has vowed to '100%' follow through on his threat to impose tariffs on European countries who oppose his demand to take control of Greenland. European allies have rallied around Greenland's sovereignty, with Denmark's foreign minister emphasizing that the US president cannot threaten his way to ownership of the semi-autonomous Danish territory. The European Union is to hold an emergency summit in Brussels to discuss how to respond to Trump's latest threat. Trump has said he will charge a 10% tariff on goods sent from the UK to the US from 1 February, increasing to 25% from 1 June, until a deal is reached for Washington to purchase Greenland from Denmark. The same tariff will apply to goods from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Finland.
Entities: Donald Trump, Greenland, European Union, Denmark, NatoTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

US believes its power matters more than international law, UN chief António Guterres tells BBC

UN Secretary-General António Guterres criticizes the US for believing its power supersedes international law, citing its actions in Venezuela and threats to annex Greenland. Guterres expresses concern over the erosion of multilateralism and the UN's effectiveness, calling for reform to the UN Security Council and limitations on veto powers. He emphasizes the need for the international community to confront powerful nations to maintain a rules-based order.
Entities: António Guterres, United States, United Nations, Donald Trump, VenezuelaTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

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

European countries are reeling after US President Donald Trump threatened to impose 10% tariffs on eight countries, including Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, Netherlands, and Finland, 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 and NATO. Trump's threat has also been criticized domestically, with some Republicans questioning his authority to impose tariffs for the purpose of acquiring territory. The move has united European leaders and even some of Trump's populist allies in criticism.
Entities: Donald Trump, Greenland, Denmark, NATO, European UnionTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Trump escalates Greenland standoff with allies, linking it to perceived Nobel Peace Prize snub - CBS News

The article discusses President Trump's escalating campaign to acquire Greenland, a territory of Denmark, and his threat to impose tariffs on Denmark and other European nations if they reject his demands. Trump's actions have been met with resistance from NATO allies, who argue that Greenland is already protected under the transatlantic alliance and that Denmark is capable of securing the territory. Trump claims that the US needs to control Greenland to prevent it from falling into the hands of China or Russia, but his argument has been dismissed by lawmakers and experts. The article also mentions Trump's comments on the Nobel Peace Prize, which he did not receive this year, and his claim that he no longer feels obligated to prioritize peace due to not receiving the award.
Entities: Donald Trump, Greenland, Denmark, NATO, NorwayTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Asia-Pacific markets today: Nikkei 225, Kospi, Hang Seng Index

Asia-Pacific markets were mostly lower on Tuesday due to renewed U.S. tariff threats tied to Greenland, raising concerns about escalating trade tensions with Europe. Japan's Nikkei 225 fell 0.96% as Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced a snap election, adding to political uncertainty. Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index rose 0.1%, while mainland China's CSI 300 slid 0.26% after heightened regulatory scrutiny. The U.S. stock futures pointed to a downbeat session on Wall Street as President Donald Trump intensified his rhetoric on Greenland. Despite the market fluctuations, Standard Chartered remains positive on China A shares, citing a stabilizing economy and expected fiscal policy support.
Entities: Asia-Pacific, Nikkei 225, Kospi, Hang Seng Index, GreenlandTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

CNBC Daily Open: A trade 'bazooka' against Trump's Greenland tariffs is in the cards for the EU

The European Union is considering retaliating against the United States' threatened tariffs on European countries, particularly France, by using its trade 'bazooka,' a tool designed to deter economic coercion. The US tariffs were proposed by President Donald Trump in response to France's refusal to join his 'Board of Peace' on Gaza and the ongoing dispute over Greenland's sale. The EU's potential retaliation could include tariffs worth $108 billion on the US, affecting various sectors such as the auto industry, luxury goods, and pharmaceuticals. The situation has caused market volatility, with stock futures indicating a significant drop and safe-haven assets like gold and silver rising to new highs.
Entities: European Union, United States, Donald Trump, Greenland, FranceTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

European markets: Stoxx 600, FTSE, DAX, CAC, DAVOS, WEF

European stocks are expected to open lower on Tuesday due to concerns over potential trade tariffs imposed by the US, following President Donald Trump's threat to hike tariffs on European countries if they oppose his bid to buy Greenland. The UK's FTSE index, Germany's DAX, and France's CAC 40 are all expected to open around 0.2% lower. The World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, is set to begin, with key speeches from high-profile delegates, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and French President Emmanuel Macron.
Entities: European stocks, Donald Trump, Greenland, World Economic Forum, DavosTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Stock market today: Live updates

The article discusses the impact of President Donald Trump's tariff threats on global markets, particularly in the context of his push to acquire Greenland. Trump's announcement of tariffs on eight NATO members' imports and his threat to impose 200% tariffs on French wines and champagne have rattled European markets, with shares of European carmakers and luxury goods companies dropping. The article also touches on the civil unrest in Iran and its potential impact on global markets. Investors are advised to be cautious, with some experts suggesting that the market's initial reaction to potential tariffs presents a buying opportunity.
Entities: Donald Trump, Greenland, United States, NATO, European UnionTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Trump blasts NATO ally, the UK, over Chagos Mauritius deal

US President Donald Trump has criticized the UK's decision to hand sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, calling it 'an act of great stupidity.' The move has strained the 'special relationship' between the US and UK, with Trump suggesting that it would be viewed as a sign of weakness by China and Russia. The controversy comes amid a growing rift between the US and its European NATO allies over Trump's pursuit of Greenland, a Danish territory in the Arctic. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has defended the decision and called for calm discussions between allies.
Entities: Donald Trump, United Kingdom, Chagos Islands, Mauritius, Diego GarciaTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Trump threatens 200% tariff on French wines and champagnes

US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose a 200% tariff on French wines and champagnes in response to French President Emmanuel Macron's reported refusal to join Trump's proposed 'Board of Peace' on Gaza. Trump also reiterated his plans to control Greenland, downplaying potential resistance from European leaders. Macron's term is set to end in May 2027, and he is not eligible for re-election. The 'Board of Peace' is a global body endorsed by the UN Security Council to oversee the Israel-Hamas ceasefire. Trump has also threatened to use military force to seize Greenland and has imposed tariffs on European countries until the US controls the territory. European states are considering retaliatory tariffs and economic counter-measures against the US.
Entities: Donald Trump, Emmanuel Macron, Gaza, Greenland, United Nations Security CouncilTone: positiveSentiment: 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 a 10% tariff on European countries that sent troops to Greenland. European leaders, including Emmanuel Macron and Ursula von der Leyen, have expressed outrage and are seeking a unified response, potentially at an emergency summit. The article highlights the potential consequences of Trump's actions, including the erosion of NATO unity and the implications for European security.
Entities: Donald Trump, Emmanuel Macron, Greenland, Europe, NATOTone: analyticalSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Donald Trump’s Greenland tariffs are no great blow to Europe

The article discusses the potential impact of Donald Trump's threatened tariffs on European countries, particularly those that sent troops to Greenland. It argues that while the additional 10% levy would be a nuisance, it would not be a significant blow to Europe as long as escalation is contained. European businesses have already prepared for potential tariffs and adjusted their supply chains and sales contracts. The article suggests that a larger trade war would be a more significant concern.
Entities: Donald Trump, Europe, America, European Union, GreenlandTone: analyticalSentiment: 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 raised concerns about the alliance's unity and Europe's defense. The article examines the potential consequences of Trump's actions and Europe's options for defending Greenland.
Entities: Donald Trump, Greenland, NATO, Europe, DenmarkTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Analysis: Europe may need to adopt Trump’s brass-knuckle methods to save Greenland | CNN PoliticsClose icon

The article discusses how Europe may need to adopt aggressive tactics, similar to those used by former US President Donald Trump, to counter his demands for Greenland. Trump's unorthodox negotiating style and disregard for traditional diplomacy have put NATO and European leaders in a difficult position. The article suggests that appealing to Trump's sense of morality or history is unlikely to work and that Europe may need to consider alternative measures, such as trade wars or boycotts, to counter Trump's demands. The article also highlights Trump's personal obsession with Greenland and his increasingly bizarre rationales for wanting to acquire it.
Entities: Donald Trump, Greenland, NATO, Europe, DenmarkTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: analyze

Danish MP: If Trump invades Greenland, ‘it would be a war’ | CNN PoliticsClose iconClose iconClose icon

Danish MP Rasmus Jarlov has warned that if former US President Donald Trump were to invade Greenland, it would be considered an act of war. In an interview with CNN's Jim Sciutto, Jarlov stated that such an action would lead to conflict between the US and Denmark, as Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. The comments come amid concerns about Trump's previous suggestions of acquiring Greenland, which have been met with resistance from Danish and Greenlandic officials. Jarlov's statement highlights the potential consequences of Trump's actions on international relations and the security of the region.
Entities: Rasmus Jarlov, Donald Trump, Jim Sciutto, Greenland, DenmarkTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Even some Trump advisers are wary of a military pursuit of Greenland. Is an off-ramp possible? | CNN PoliticsClose icon

The article discusses the Trump administration's renewed efforts to acquire Greenland, a Danish territory in the Arctic, and the concerns it has raised among European allies and some of Trump's own advisers. Trump's fixation on Greenland began during his first term, driven by its strategic importance and potential for Russian or Chinese influence. While some advisers share Trump's goal of US control, they disagree on the means, with some warning against military action. The article suggests that Trump's team is exploring alternative approaches, including using tariffs as a negotiating tool to pressure Denmark into a deal. European leaders remain cautious, but some hold out hope for a negotiated solution, potentially involving a renegotiation of the 1951 agreement between the US, Denmark, and Greenland.
Entities: Donald Trump, Greenland, United States, Europe, DenmarkTone: analyticalSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Live updates: Trump says he ‘doesn’t care about the Nobel Prize’ as Greenland tensions loom over Davos | CNN PoliticsClose icon

US President Donald Trump has reiterated his desire to acquire Greenland, sparking tensions with European leaders ahead of the World Economic Forum's annual meeting in Davos. Trump posted screenshots of messages from French President Emmanuel Macron and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on social media, claiming they supported his Greenland plan. Trump also dismissed Macron's decision not to join the 'Board of Peace' aimed at rebuilding Gaza, saying 'nobody wants him.' The move has cast a shadow over Trump's meetings with global leaders at Davos, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen discussing the escalating spat with a US Congress delegation. Trump also condemned anti-ICE protesters in Minnesota, describing them as 'agitators and insurrectionists.'
Entities: Donald Trump, Greenland, Emmanuel Macron, NATO, World Economic ForumTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Why Trump’s dust-up with Europe over Greenland is a double-edged sword for Russia | CNNClose icon

The article analyzes the implications of US President Donald Trump's interest in acquiring Greenland for Russia. While Trump's move has caused a rift between the US and Europe, potentially weakening NATO, it also poses a challenge to Russia's dominance in the Arctic region. The Kremlin is torn between seeing Trump's actions as a blow to NATO and being concerned about the unpredictable nature of the Trump administration's global actions. Russia's President Vladimir Putin has criticized the US for operating outside international law and relying on military might. The article suggests that while Trump's actions may align with some of Russia's views on great power influence, they also pose significant challenges for Moscow.
Entities: Donald Trump, Russia, Europe, Greenland, NATOTone: analyticalSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

Denmark deploys troops to Greenland amid tensions with US | Fox News

Denmark has deployed additional troops to Greenland amid escalating tensions with President Donald Trump, who has expressed interest in acquiring the strategic Arctic territory. The move comes after Trump claimed that Denmark had failed to secure Greenland against foreign threats, particularly from Russia and China. Danish officials have stated that the troop deployment is part of broader security concerns and cooperation with NATO allies, rather than a direct response to Trump's statements. The White House has maintained that the presence of European troops will not affect Trump's interest in acquiring Greenland.
Entities: Denmark, Greenland, President Donald Trump, Russia, ChinaTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Trump confirms Putin invited to Board of Peace for supervision of Gaza peace plan | Fox News

US President Donald Trump confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin has been invited to join his proposed Board of Peace to oversee the Gaza peace plan's next phase. The Kremlin acknowledged receiving the invitation and is reviewing the details. France has also been invited but declined to join 'at this stage,' citing concerns over UN principles. Trump responded by criticizing French President Emmanuel Macron and threatening tariffs on French wines and champagnes. Several other countries, including Israel, Canada, and Belarus, have received invitations, with some like Morocco and Hungary already accepting.
Entities: Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, Emmanuel Macron, Gaza, Board of PeaceTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

EU leaders take stage in Davos as Trump dangles tariff threats over Greenland - France 24

European leaders are gathering at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, ahead of US President Donald Trump's arrival, as he threatens to impose tariffs on EU countries over a dispute regarding Greenland. EU leaders, including Ursula von der Leyen and Emmanuel Macron, are set to address the forum, emphasizing the need to respect Greenland's sovereignty. Trump is expected to dominate the event, with a large US delegation promoting an American agenda that has rattled global allies. The EU is considering countermeasures against potential US tariffs, with leaders set to hold an emergency summit in Brussels to discuss their response.
Entities: Donald Trump, Ursula von der Leyen, Emmanuel Macron, He Lifeng, Mark CarneyTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Trump threatens 200% tariff on French wine over Macron's refusal to join 'Board of Peace' - France 24

US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose a 200% tariff on French wines and Champagnes if French President Emmanuel Macron does not join his proposed 'Board of Peace', a global conflict resolution initiative. Macron has declined the invitation, with a source close to him stating that France intends to decline at this stage. Trump claimed that the tariff would push Macron to join, but also stated that Macron's participation is not necessary. The 'Board of Peace' aims to resolve global conflicts, with members required to contribute $1 billion in cash to maintain membership beyond three years. The initiative has been met with caution from governments and diplomats, who fear it could harm the work of the UN.
Entities: Donald Trump, Emmanuel Macron, France, United States, Board of PeaceTone: positiveSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Trump to take advantage of deal-making paradise in Davos following Greenland threat | Money News | Sky News

US President Donald Trump is set to attend the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, where he will lead an 80-strong US delegation. The event is expected to be dominated by Trump's presence and his recent threat to impose tariffs on Greenland and other Nordic and northern European allies. The UK Prime Minister has decided not to attend, while other G7 leaders will be present. The forum will also feature senior executives from major companies and discussions on various global issues, including Ukraine and reconstruction deals. Trump's attendance is seen as an opportunity for diplomatic negotiations, but also as a showcase for his economic policies and potential deals.
Entities: Donald Trump, Davos, World Economic Forum, G7, UKTone: analyticalSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Trump's extraordinary letter to Norway about Greenland - in full and fact-checked | US News | Sky News

The article discusses a letter sent by US President Donald Trump to the Prime Minister of Norway regarding Greenland. Trump demanded 'complete and total control of Greenland' and criticized Norway for not awarding him the Nobel Peace Prize. The letter was in response to a message from Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere and Finnish President Alexander Stubb, who proposed a call to discuss various global issues including Greenland. The article fact-checks Trump's claims and provides context to the letter.
Entities: Donald Trump, Norway, Greenland, Nobel Peace Prize, Jonas Gahr StoereTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Denmark deploys extra troops to Greenland as Trump ramps up focus on territory | New York Post

Denmark has deployed over 100 combat soldiers to Greenland amid rising tensions with President Trump, who has expressed interest in acquiring the autonomous Danish territory. The Danish Armed Forces described the troop deployment as a 'substantial contribution' to the defense of Greenland, unrelated to Trump's desire for the Arctic island. The soldiers will participate in NATO military training exercises, dubbed 'Arctic Endurance.' Danish officials downplayed the idea that the troop presence would provoke Trump, emphasizing their focus on defending Greenland and practicing 'sharp confrontations.' Meanwhile, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) announced that American and Canadian military aircraft will soon arrive at Pituffik Space Base in Greenland.
Entities: Denmark, Greenland, President Trump, NATO, Arctic EnduranceTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

What's behind the Trump-Greenland crisis — and beyond it | New York Post

The article discusses the crisis between the US and Europe over Greenland, with President Donald Trump considering purchasing the island. The author argues that Trump's approach, although controversial, highlights the strategic importance of Greenland and the need for the Western Alliance to secure it against growing Chinese and Russian influence. The article suggests that a compromise between the US and Europe is necessary to strengthen the alliance and prevent Greenland from falling under Chinese or Russian control.
Entities: Donald Trump, Greenland, Europe, China, RussiaTone: analyticalSentiment: negativeIntent: persuade

Don’t expect Greenland crisis to realign EU with China, former US diplomat says | South China Morning Post

A former US diplomat, William Klein, has stated that the Greenland crisis is unlikely to cause a fundamental realignment of the European Union's (EU) relations with China. Klein, speaking at a seminar at the University of Hong Kong, noted that while Beijing may hope that strained transatlantic ties could draw European countries closer to China, the EU's core task remains navigating the intensifying US-China rivalry while seeking a balance between the two. Klein cited China's deteriorating image within the EU due to its trade policy and perceived support for Russia's invasion of Ukraine as reasons for this unlikely realignment.
Entities: William Klein, European Union, China, United States, GreenlandTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform