Former US President Donald Trump has declared a sweeping new trade war against the United Kingdom and several European allies, imposing punitive tariffs in a dramatic escalation over the future of Greenland.
Tariff Threat Over Arctic Ambitions
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Mr Trump stated that from February 1, 2026, a 10% tariff would be applied to "any and all goods" sent to the United States from the listed nations. He warned this would rise sharply to 25% from June 1, 2026. The measure, he said, would remain in force "until such time as a Deal is reached for the Complete and Total purchase of Greenland."
The countries targeted include the United Kingdom, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Finland. Trump accused them of having "journeyed to Greenland, for purposes unknown" and playing a "very dangerous game" that risked global peace.
UK's Arctic Involvement and Security Concerns
The announcement follows confirmed UK military activity in the region. Downing Street acknowledged this week that, at Denmark's request, one UK military officer had been sent to join a reconnaissance group ahead of a planned Arctic Endurance exercise, though it denied this constituted a formal "deployment".
This comes amid renewed heightened security concerns in the Arctic and High North. Denmark has stepped up its military presence there, reacting to sustained pressure from Mr Trump, who has long insisted the US must acquire Greenland to prevent Russian or Chinese control. His administration has previously threatened to use force to annex the semi-autonomous Danish territory.
Since the start of 2026, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has stepped up discussions on Arctic security, raising the issue in calls with Mr Trump, the Danish prime minister, and the NATO secretary-general.
Political Reaction and Transatlantic Strain
The move has sparked immediate condemnation from UK political figures. Tory leader Kemi Badenoch labelled the tariff announcement "a terrible idea" and said President Trump was "completely wrong".
She warned that people in both the UK and US would face higher costs and that it would burden businesses. Notably, she agreed with Sir Keir Starmer, stating: "The sovereignty of Greenland should only be decided by the people of Greenland."
Mr Trump framed the tariffs as a protective measure, stating the US was "immediately open to negotiation" and that it was "time for Denmark to give back". He argued that "China and Russia want Greenland, and there is not a thing that Denmark can do about it," positioning the US purchase as the only solution.
This unprecedented use of trade policy to pursue a territorial claim marks a severe new strain on transatlantic alliance relations, raising profound questions about future diplomatic and economic ties between the UK, Europe, and the United States.
