Trump Warns of Tariffs on Nations Opposing US Greenland Bid

President Donald Trump threatened tariffs on any nation that does not support US plans to acquire Greenland. The warning targets countries like Denmark, which governs the Arctic island, and comes during his second term as part of a broader push to expand American territory. Trump made the remarks recently, building on years of interest in the massive island for security and economic reasons.

Background

Greenland has been on Trump's radar since his first term in office. Back in 2017, he started talking about buying the island, which is about three times the size of Texas. He saw it as a real estate deal that could boost US power in the Arctic. Advisors like John Bolton looked into options, including secret talks with Danish officials. Senator Tom Cotton also pushed the idea, pointing to national security needs because of the island's location near Russia and its rare earth minerals.

Trump lost interest for a bit after Denmark said no in 2019, but it came back strong after his 2024 election win. Now in his second presidency since 2025, he calls it part of American expansionism. He talks about the island's size often, saying it should belong to the United States. Greenlanders and Danes have rejected the idea each time. The local government says its future is up to them, not outsiders. Denmark provides subsidies, but some Greenlanders think the US could offer more money and support.

The island matters for more than size. It sits in a key spot for watching Russia and China in the Arctic. US bases are already there, like Thule Air Base, which tracks missiles. Experts say control would help block rivals from gaining ground. Trump has floated ideas like using Puerto Rico funds to pay for it or trading territory. He told writers once that owning Greenland would put him in history books next to presidents who added land to the map.

Greenlanders mostly want to stay with Denmark or go independent. Polls show they prefer Denmark over the US, but pick America before China. Some local leaders hope Trump's push makes Denmark treat them better or speeds up independence talks.

Key Details

Trump's latest threat ties tariffs to cooperation on Greenland. He said nations that 'don't go along' with the plans will face trade penalties. This follows meetings between US lawmakers and Denmark's prime minister. The talks covered Greenland but hit roadblocks over ownership.

Past Efforts and Reactions

In his first term, Trump tasked a small team to study buying Greenland. They met with experts on its minerals and talked to Denmark's ambassador. One official noted US subsidies could top what Denmark gives, which is about the size of a mid-sized US city's budget. Greenlanders spoke out too. Some welcomed attention but not takeover.

"Greenland's future is its own decision and responsibility. It will not be owned or governed by the US." – Greenlandic government statement

Danish leaders called the idea absurd. A former navy head said Trump's talk, even if odd, warns Russia and China to stay away. A Copenhagen expert saw it as a sign that Greenland is in America's zone. Locals like politician Aaja Chemnitz Larsen said Denmark already acts different because of Trump pressure.

Trump has upped the ante since 2025. He mentioned invasion or annexation, though that breaks international rules. Supporters point to World War II when the US offered to buy it secretly. Now, with Arctic melting opening new routes, the stakes feel higher.

What This Means

Tariffs could hit Denmark's exports like pork and drugs, straining ties with a NATO ally. Denmark relies on trade with the US, so penalties would hurt. Greenland might see more US aid or bases if talks move forward, but locals fear losing self-rule.

For the US, Greenland control means better missile defense and mineral access for tech and green energy. Rare earths there could cut reliance on China. Russia and China watch closely; both eye Arctic claims. Trump's move signals no backing down on strategic spots.

Greenland's push for independence could speed up. Leaders like Steen Lynge say use US interest to break from Danish money. Others want direct deals for military help without full sale. Denmark faces pressure to loosen grip or face economic pain.

US lawmakers keep meeting Danish officials, but no deal yet. Trump's team studies options, from buyout to stronger partnerships. Greenlanders talk among themselves about options, with most against US rule but open to ties. The tariff threat adds heat to a cold region dispute that could reshape Arctic power.

Immigration issues in places like Minnesota tie into broader Trump policies, but Greenland stands alone as expansion focus. Lawmakers from both parties weigh in, with security hawks backing Trump. Danes prepare responses, balancing alliance with sovereignty.

Global eyes turn to talks. Will tariffs fly or lead to compromise? Greenlanders voice hopes for respect, not ownership fights. US push tests how far expansion goes in a crowded Arctic.