In the news reported by Dajiyuan on January 19, 2026, US President Trump’s interest in purchasing Greenland has stirred up diplomatic controversy in Europe. Trump announced on Saturday his intention to impose tariffs on eight European countries including Denmark and Norway. On Sunday, these eight countries issued a joint statement in response. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte stated that he had communicated with Trump about the security situation in Greenland.
The joint statement from Denmark, Norway, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, and the UK expressed concerns that the tariff threats could harm transatlantic relations and potentially trigger a dangerous vicious cycle. They emphasized their commitment to unity, coordination, and sovereignty protection.
The statement also highlighted the joint effort of NATO member countries to enhance Arctic security as a shared interest across the Atlantic. The ongoing “Arctic Endurance” exercise coordinated by Denmark and allies is a response to this need and is not a threat to any party.
“We fully support the Kingdom of Denmark and the Greenlandic people. Building on the process initiated last week, we are ready to engage in dialogue at any time on the basis of the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity, firmly defending these principles,” the statement said.
President Trump announced on Saturday that starting from February 1, a 10% tariff will be imposed on all goods exported from these eight countries to the United States. He criticized these countries for playing a “very dangerous game” regarding the Greenland issue, stating that the risks involved are unacceptable.
The President emphasized that Greenland is directly related to the national security of the United States and global countries. China and Russia have long coveted Greenland, and Denmark lacks the capacity for self-defense, making it essential for the US to safeguard this “sacred land.”
Trump stressed that the US has been seeking to purchase Greenland for over 150 years, with previous US Presidents attempting to do so. Now, with the US’s “Golden Dome Project” and the need for modern offensive and defensive weapon systems, the integration of Greenland is particularly crucial.
Against the backdrop of heightened tensions across the Atlantic, NATO Secretary-General Rutte posted on the social media platform X on Sunday, stating, “I have communicated with the US President about the security situation in Greenland and the Arctic. We will continue to work on this and look forward to meeting with him later this week in Davos.”