In a bold move, U.S. President Donald Trump has announced his intention to impose tariffs on eight European countries if an agreement over the acquisition of Greenland is not reached. Speaking in an interview with NBC News, Trump stated that the tariffs, which he described as "100% implemented," will start at 10% on February 1 and increase to 25% by June 1 unless the U.S. secures a deal to purchase the self-governing territory from Denmark.
When pressed about whether he would consider using military force to secure Greenland, Trump chose not to comment, leaving open the question of how far he might go to acquire the strategic Arctic island. His plan has already stirred tensions across Europe, with leaders of the affected nations—Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland—resisting the move.
Trump has justified his actions by citing national security concerns, asserting that control over Greenland is crucial to counter external threats. He criticized European leaders for their opposition, suggesting they should instead focus on the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. "That's what Europe should be focusing on, not Greenland," he emphasized.
In a separate issue, Trump addressed his failure to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, accusing Norway of controlling the selection process. Despite the Norwegian government's insistence that the Nobel Committee operates independently, Trump alleged government influence, stating, "They like to say 'they have nothing to do with it,' but they are involved in everything."
He further expressed his disinterest in the Nobel Prize, arguing that his efforts to mediate peace and stop eight wars were a greater accomplishment. Trump's comments came after he reportedly told Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre that he no longer feels obligated to prioritize peace since not receiving the award.
Trump concluded by emphasizing that while peace remains important, his focus will be on what benefits the United States, declaring, "The world is not safe unless we have complete and total control over Greenland." His remarks signal a shift in U.S. policy priorities, potentially heightening tensions with European allies.
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