US Tariffs Spark Unified Pushback From Eight European Countries

The United States has announced a new round of tariffs targeting European exports, triggering swift and coordinated responses from multiple European governments. On January 17 local time, US President Donald Trump said on his social media platform Truth Social that all goods exported to the United States from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland will face an additional 10 percent tariff starting February 1, 2026. The tariff rate will rise to 25 percent from June 1, 2026. Several European countries and EU leaders issued statements in response the same day.

Denmark: US Tariff Policy 'Unexpected'

Danish Foreign Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen said in a written statement that President Trump's announcement was unexpected. He noted that Denmark's intention to increase its military presence in Greenland is aimed at strengthening security in the Arctic region. Rasmussen added that Denmark is maintaining close contact with the European Commission and other partners on the issue.

Denmark's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Troels Lund Poulsen also posted on social media, stating that President Trump's threats toward Denmark, Greenland, and NATO allies are completely unacceptable.

France: Tariff Threats Are Unacceptable

French President Emmanuel Macron said on social media that the tariff threats issued by President Trump after France expressed support for Greenland are unacceptable. Macron stated that if the threats are confirmed, European countries will respond in a united and coordinated manner to defend European sovereignty. He added that he would discuss the issue with other European partners.

Germany: Response to Be Coordinated With European Partners

German government spokesperson Stefan Kornelius said the German government has taken note of the US president's remarks and is in close consultation with European partners. He said Germany and its partners will jointly decide on appropriate countermeasures at an appropriate time.

United Kingdom: US Tariff Plan Is Completely Wrong

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said in a statement on January 17 that the US threat to impose additional tariffs on several European countries is completely wrong. He said he would raise the matter directly with the US government.

Starmer also reiterated that the UK's position on Greenland is clear, stating that Greenland is part of Denmark and that its future should be determined jointly by the people of Greenland and Denmark.

EU Leaders Warn of Damage to Transatlantic Relations

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa issued a joint statement on social media, warning that additional tariffs would undermine transatlantic relations and could trigger a dangerous downward spiral. They said Europe will remain united and coordinated and is committed to safeguarding its sovereignty.

Sweden, Norway, the Netherlands, Finland, and other affected countries also issued responses, describing the planned US tariffs as unacceptable.