A diplomatic and military crisis has erupted in the Arctic after former U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to take over Greenland, prompting European countries to send troops to the island for joint exercises.
The exercise, known as the Danish-led "Operation Arctic Endurance," is a coordinated deployment of European troops aimed at strengthening Arctic security.
On Saturday, January 17, 2026, Trump announced he would impose a 10% tariff on eight NATO allies; Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland, set to rise to 25% in June.
European leaders swiftly condemned the move, framing it as intimidation and reaffirming their commitment to Greenland's sovereignty.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, that Europe would remain "united, coordinated and committed to upholding its sovereignty."
She added that the Danish-led "Operation Arctic Endurance," the pre-planned military exercise, is intended to strengthen Arctic security and “poses no threat to anyone,” warning that Trump’s tariff threat could trigger a “dangerous downward spiral” in transatlantic relations.
French President Emmanuel Macron described the tariff threats as "unacceptable" and convened an emergency defense cabinet.
France’s participation in the drills includes mountain infantry specialists, and Macron said the operation reflects “lucidity and solidarity with Denmark.”
He added that Arctic security is inseparable from European security and stressed that France will remain firm on territorial sovereignty.
Macron also emphasized that Arctic security is inseparable from European security and that France must remain firm on territorial sovereignty.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the tariff threat "completely wrong" and reaffirmed the U.K.’s support for Denmark.
While the U.K.’s military contribution is limited to reconnaissance personnel, Starmer said Britain is "stepping up on Arctic security" and has been in active talks with Denmark and NATO to coordinate a response,
He described the U.S. threat as a “negotiating tactic” that undermines the alliance.
Denmark also responded sharply. Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen called the idea of a U.S. purchase “totally unacceptable,” while Rasmus Jarlov, chair of the defense committee, wrote on social media that "every insult, threat, tariff and lie" only strengthens Denmark’s resolve.
Sweden confirmed its officers are already in Greenland preparing for the exercises, with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson declaring, “We will not let ourselves be blackmailed.”
The situation remains tense as thousands of Greenlanders protested in the capital, Nuuk, against the U.S. annexation plans.
European lawmakers are also threatening to pause ratification of existing U.S. trade deals in retaliation.
