Eight NATO countries condemn Trump's threats, say they hurt transatlantic relations
Illustrative photo: Eight NATO partners denounce Trump's moves (Getty Images)
Eight NATO nations have issued a joint statement condemning US President Donald Trump's tariff threats, saying his actions undermine transatlantic relations, according to the statement signed by the countries and posted on the German government's website.
The statement was signed by representatives from Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and the UK. The countries said they aim to strengthen Arctic security and are conducting the Arctic Endurance exercises together with their allies.
The exercises pose no threat to other nations, and the participants expressed "full solidarity with the Kingdom of Denmark and the people of Greenland."
"Building on the process begun last week, we stand ready to engage in a dialogue based on the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity that we stand firmly behind," the statement reads.
The signatories stressed that US President Trump's statements and threats of tariffs "undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral."
"We will continue to stand united and coordinated in our response. We are committed to upholding our sovereignty," the statement added.
Trump was also condemned by US senators. A bipartisan group in the Senate denounced the President for threatening tariffs against several NATO countries over Greenland, calling the actions inappropriate toward allies.
On January 17, Trump announced plans to impose tariffs on goods from European allies — specifically those supporting Denmark. Tariffs would remain in place until the US is allowed to acquire Greenland.
Starting February 1, 2026, a 10% tariff will be applied to goods from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Finland, and the UK (in addition to existing tariffs). If Greenland is not acquired by the US by June 1, 2026, the tariffs will increase to 25%.
Following Trump's announcement, European leaders issued statements saying they are ready to coordinate a joint response. The EU also plans to halt implementation of its trade agreement with the US, with Brussels now seeing little prospect for the deal amid Trump's threats.
