United States President Donald Trump has announced plans to impose sweeping new tariffs on goods imported into the U.S. from several European countries, including the United Kingdom, Denmark, France and Germany, in a move that has sparked political and economic concern across Europe.
In a statement posted on his Truth Social platform, Trump said a 10 per cent tariff would take effect from February 1 on exports from the affected countries.
He added that the measure would remain in force until what he described as a “deal” is reached for the “complete and total purchase of Greenland,” a semi-autonomous territory under Danish sovereignty.
According to Trump, the tariff rate would be significantly increased to 25 per cent from June 1 if no agreement is reached.
He listed Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Finland as countries that would be impacted by the trade measures.
The announcement has drawn widespread attention due to its unusual linkage of trade policy to geopolitical demands.
Trump did not provide details on how negotiations over Greenland would be conducted or how the proposed purchase would align with international law and diplomatic norms.
Greenland, the world’s largest island, is strategically important due to its location in the Arctic and its vast natural resources.
Trump previously floated the idea of buying Greenland during his presidency, a proposal that was firmly rejected by Danish authorities, who described the territory as not for sale.
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Economists and trade analysts say the proposed tariffs, if implemented, could disrupt transatlantic trade flows and strain relations between the United States and key European allies.
European exporters in sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture and technology could face higher costs and reduced access to the U.S. market, while American consumers may see price increases.
The statement did not clarify whether the proposed tariffs would require congressional approval or how they would be enforced if Trump is not currently in office, but it has nonetheless triggered renewed debate about the use of tariffs as a tool of foreign policy.
So far, there has been no official response from the governments of the countries named, though diplomatic sources say the comments are likely to be taken seriously given Trump’s history of aggressive trade policies while in office.
The development adds to ongoing global uncertainty around trade and diplomacy, as world leaders and markets closely watch signals that could shape future U.S. economic and foreign policy direction.