President Donald Trump argued on Truth Social that the Greenland acquisition was necessary for ‘security programs related to ‘The Dome”
President Donald Trump’s push to acquire Greenland triggered major rebuke from transatlantic nations.
The president announced on Saturday a 10% tariff on eight European countries, starting February 1, which would rise to 25% by June.
The move can once again cause a trade war with Europe. According to the Financial Times, the EU is weighing retaliatory tariffs worth up to $108 billion.
Trump argued on Truth Social that the Greenland acquisition was necessary for “security programs related to ‘The Dome,’” adding that it could also protect Canada.
The eight countries facing tariffs are France, Germany, the UK, Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and Finland. These nations recently sent their troops to Greenland for joint exercises in the Arctic territory.
Leaders of the targeted European nations quickly pushed back, warning the move could derail transatlantic ties. French President Emmanuel Macron and others urged the EU to consider using its powerful anti-coercion tool, a step never taken before.
The instrument is also referred to as Europe’s trade “bazooka.” Deploying it could significantly escalate global tensions.
Meanwhile, the EU is delaying ratification of the tariff deal it reached with the US last year.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said tariffs risk triggering a downward spiral, while leaders stressed unity and readiness to respond.
Analysts warn the standoff could benefit China and Russia as Western unity weakens.