Protests in Greenland and Denmark against Trump plans

January 17, 2026

Thousands of protesters gathered in Greenland and Denmark to oppose President Trump's stated intentions to acquire Greenland, an autonomous Danish territory. Trump has threatened to impose escalating tariffs on eight European nations starting at 10% in February and rising to 25% by June unless they agree to sell Greenland to the United States. While Trump claims the territory is essential for American national security due to its strategic Arctic location and natural resources, opinion polls show approximately 85% of Greenlanders reject joining the US.

Who is affected

Greenland's population (approximately 85% oppose joining the US according to polls)
Denmark and its citizens
Eight European countries facing tariffs: Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Finland
US Congressional delegation visiting Copenhagen (11 members including Democrats and moderate Republicans)
NATO alliance members
Greenlandic and Danish NGOs organizing protests
Inuit communities and Greenlandic associations

What action is being taken

Thousands of protesters are demonstrating in Copenhagen, Nuuk, and other Danish cities
A US Congressional delegation is visiting Copenhagen
France, Germany, Sweden, Norway, Finland, the Netherlands, and the UK are dispatching troops to Greenland on a reconnaissance mission
Trump is announcing tariffs on eight European countries (set to begin February 1)

Why it matters

Greenland's strategic location between North America and the Arctic makes it critical for missile defense early warning systems and naval monitoring capabilities. The situation threatens European unity and NATO cohesion, as Trump's aggressive rhetoric and tariff threats represent an unprecedented challenge to territorial sovereignty within the Western alliance. The island is also resource-rich, adding economic significance to its military value, while the dispute raises fundamental questions about self-determination for Greenland's population and the stability of long-standing security partnerships.

What's next

10% US tariffs on eight European countries will be imposed starting February 1
Tariffs will increase to 25% on June 1 unless a deal for Greenland's purchase is reached
The Congressional delegation's visit to Copenhagen is ongoing

Read full article from source: BBC