Trump has threatened European countries with higher tariffs if he doesn’t get Greenland. Will it work?

On 18 Jan 2026, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced a threat to eight European nations—Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Britain, France, Germany, Netherlands—with a 10 % tariff on all U.S. imports starting 1 Feb and rising to 25 % from 1 Jun, pending acquisition of Greenland. Trump cites national‑security claims over raw materials and rare‑earth minerals, while Denmark has expanded its military presence, launching Operation Arctic Endurance with allies. European troops arrived in January to bolster defenses, but the move strains NATO’s collective‑defence fabric. Europe could retaliate through the Anti‑Coercion Instrument, selling its 28 % of U.S. Treasury holdings, or seek NATO‑led Arctic security. The scenario raises questions about international law, UN Charter compliance, and the endurance of the liberal order.