Trump Threatens Tariffs Over Greenland Control Dispute

President Donald Trump has reignited discussions about Greenland, suggesting tariffs on countries that oppose US claims over the territory. His remarks come amid bipartisan concerns from US lawmakers who argue that Greenland should be viewed as an ally rather than a mere asset. The ongoing debate highlights the strategic importance of Greenland in the context of rising military activities from Russia and China. As tensions escalate, both Denmark and Greenland assert their independence, emphasizing the need for diplomatic relations over territorial ambitions. This article delves into the implications of Trump's statements and the international response to his controversial stance.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 17, 2026, 14:08 IST

Trump's Controversial Remarks on Greenland

On Friday, President Donald Trump suggested that he might impose tariffs on nations that do not support the United States' claim over Greenland, as reported by various news outlets.

Greenland, which is a semi-autonomous region of Denmark, is an ally of the US.

Trump has previously expressed interest in acquiring Greenland from Denmark, a notion he first introduced during his presidency in 2019. The territory has consistently stated its desire to remain independent from US control, despite the presence of a US military base on the island.

During his recent comments, Trump stated, “I may put a tariff on countries if they don’t go along with Greenland.”

He emphasized the importance of the Arctic island for the nation’s security.

These statements coincided with a visit from a bipartisan group of US lawmakers, primarily Democrats, who met with Danish leaders in Copenhagen to address Trump's ongoing threats regarding Greenland.

The delegation conveyed that Trump's territorial ambitions do not reflect the views of the American populace. Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski was quoted saying, “Greenland needs to be viewed as our ally, not as an asset.”

Earlier this week, the foreign ministers of Denmark and Greenland engaged in discussions with US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington.

This meeting followed Trump's suggestion on January 9 that the US might consider using force to take control of Greenland, asserting that it was necessary to prevent Russian or Chinese influence in the area.

Trump remarked, “We are going to do something on Greenland, whether they like it or not.” He expressed a preference for a peaceful agreement but indicated a willingness to pursue more aggressive measures if necessary.

He argued that controlling the resource-rich island is vital for US security amid increasing military activities from Russia and China in the Arctic region.

Neither Moscow nor Beijing has made any territorial claims over Greenland.

The renewed focus on Greenland follows a recent US military operation in Venezuela, where the US allegedly abducted President Nicolás Maduro and his wife for drug trafficking charges.

While Greenland enjoys self-governance, it depends on Denmark for defense and foreign relations.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen previously cautioned that any US invasion of Greenland would jeopardize the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.

Both Denmark and the US are part of NATO, a military alliance comprising 32 North American and European nations committed to mutual defense.

Leaders from major European nations and Canada have expressed their support for Greenland, asserting that the territory rightfully belongs to its inhabitants.