President Donald Trump announces sweeping new tariffs on key European allies, escalating pressure on countries opposing the United States’ proposed acquisition of Greenland.
Speaking on the issue, President Trump says the United States will impose a 10 percent tariff beginning February 1 on imports from Denmark, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom. The administration plans to raise the tariff rate to 25 percent in June if no agreement is reached, with further increases possible until the countries change their stance.
The president makes clear that the tariffs are directly tied to opposition against US efforts to acquire Greenland, signaling that trade pressure will remain a central negotiating tool. According to Trump, the measures are designed to compel cooperation from governments resisting Washington’s strategic objectives.
Trump points to past examples to defend the strategy, citing Mexico during his first term, when tariff threats prompted swift policy action, including the deployment of troops to Mexico’s northern border. He argues that tariffs have proven effective in high-stakes international negotiations and can produce rapid results.
European governments have yet to issue a unified response, but the announcement raises the prospect of heightened trade tensions between the United States and its traditional allies. Economists warn that escalating tariffs could disrupt transatlantic trade flows and strain diplomatic relations if the dispute intensifies.
The administration indicates it will closely monitor the reaction from affected countries and adjust tariff levels accordingly. For now, Trump signals that the pressure campaign will continue until a deal is reached, keeping global markets and diplomatic observers on alert for further developments.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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