Chicago – January 19, 2026
President Donald Trump intensified his push for the United States to acquire Greenland over the weekend, even as a bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers concluded a diplomatic visit to Denmark aimed at reducing tensions surrounding the issue.
On Saturday, Trump announced on social media that he plans to impose a 10 percent tariff on imports from eight European countries, including Denmark, citing their opposition to his Greenland proposal. He added that the tariff would increase to 25 percent by June if an agreement allowing the U.S. to acquire Greenland is not reached.
The announcement came shortly after a congressional delegation wrapped up meetings in Denmark, where 11 lawmakers sought to reassure Danish and Greenlandic leaders of continued U.S. support and commitment to long-standing alliances. The delegation included members from both political parties and focused on strengthening diplomatic ties.
North Carolina Senator Thom Tillis, one of two Republicans on the trip, sharply criticized the president’s tariff threat. In a social media post, Tillis condemned what he described as pressure tactics pushed by a small group of advisers, warning that such actions could damage U.S. credibility and weaken the NATO alliance.
During the visit, lawmakers met with senior officials from Denmark and Greenland, including Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. Frederiksen has previously warned that a U.S. takeover of Greenland would threaten the future of NATO cooperation.
Senator Chris Coons of Delaware, who led the delegation, emphasized the importance of respecting alliances. He stated that Greenland is part of Denmark, Denmark is a NATO ally, and that fact alone should put an end to the debate.
The renewed controversy has highlighted growing concerns among U.S. and European leaders about the impact of escalating rhetoric on transatlantic relations and NATO unity.
