Trump escalates Greenland push with envoy visit and tariff threats
Donald Trump has stepped up his long-running interest in Greenland, appointing a special envoy and signalling that tariffs could be used against countries that resist his plans. The moves have heightened tensions between the United States and Denmark, which retains sovereignty over the autonomous Arctic territory.
The appointment of a US envoy to focus on Greenland has been framed by the White House as part of a broader strategic review of American interests in the Arctic. Greenland’s location and natural resources have long been seen as geopolitically significant, particularly as competition in the region increases due to climate change and renewed great-power rivalry.
However, Trump’s remarks about using tariffs as leverage have drawn criticism in Europe. Danish officials have reiterated that Greenland is not for sale and stressed that any changes to its status must be decided by Greenlanders themselves, in line with international law and existing agreements. Greenland’s government has also emphasised its autonomy and rejected external pressure.
The prospect of tariffs has raised concerns about economic coercion being used against allies. Analysts warn that such measures could strain transatlantic relations and set an uncomfortable precedent, particularly if trade tools are deployed to pursue territorial or strategic goals. Denmark is a NATO ally, and the dispute comes at a time when alliance unity is already under pressure from multiple global crises.
Beyond bilateral relations, the episode has wider implications for the rules-based international order. Critics argue that threatening economic penalties over sovereignty questions risks undermining established diplomatic norms, while supporters of a tougher stance say it reflects a more transactional approach to foreign policy.
For now, discussions remain at a diplomatic stage, but the combination of envoy diplomacy and tariff threats suggests the issue of Greenland is set to remain a point of friction between Washington, Copenhagen and European partners.
