Washington: US President Donald Trump has signaled the possibility of imposing steep tariffs on countries that refuse to support the United States on the Greenland issue, issuing his strongest warning yet on the strategically sensitive territory. Trump indicated that economic pressure could be used as a key tool to advance Washington’s interests, raising concerns of heightened geopolitical tensions.
Speaking at a White House event, Trump argued that Greenland is critical to US national security and must come under American control as part of its broader defence strategy. He said the United States has multiple ways to secure its objectives and warned that nations opposing US plans could face financial consequences through higher tariffs. He added that he would not hesitate to take tough decisions on the matter and dismissed Denmark’s objections.
Trump:
I may put a tariff on countries if they don't go along with Greenland because we need Greenland for national security.pic.twitter.com/HPIHJWaEUy
— Clash Report (@clashreport) January 16, 2026
Denmark, Greenland’s leadership, and several European countries have rejected Trump’s position, opposing any move to bring the territory under US control. Despite this, Trump reiterated that Greenland remains a key component of America’s security architecture, particularly in the Arctic region.
Amid the escalating rhetoric, the Republican Party has introduced a bill titled the “Greenland Annexation Statehood Act.” The legislation, introduced by Republican lawmaker Randy Fine, would allow the US government to initiate steps toward acquiring Greenland. Fine said the move is necessary to counter growing influence from US rivals such as Russia and China in the Arctic.
The developments come amid broader geopolitical manoeuvring, with Trump reportedly intensifying efforts to assert US dominance in strategically important regions. Analysts view the latest remarks as a sign of potential economic pressure and diplomatic strain as the Greenland issue gains renewed prominence on the international stage.