August M
Fresh tensions have emerged between the United States and its European allies as Donald Trump again pushes for control of Greenland, triggering diplomatic unease across Nato.
The dispute has drawn in Nordic leaders, sparked tariff threats and prompted renewed military coordination in the Arctic.
Strategic fault lines
Greenland, a vast but sparsely populated Arctic territory, has become a focal point of US security concerns. The island’s location makes it critical for missile early-warning systems and for monitoring naval activity in the North Atlantic.
Trump has repeatedly argued that US control of Greenland is essential for national and global security. He has said he wants to buy the territory and has refused to rule out the use of force against a Nato ally to secure it.
Over the weekend, he threatened to impose a 10% tariff on goods from eight NATO countries from February, warning it could rise to 25% by June if they oppose his plans, reports the BBC.
Allied response
Denmark and Greenland have rejected Trump’s claims, while Nato allies have moved to reinforce their presence in the region. Last week, Denmark, Greenland and partner nations agreed to increase military activity and exercises in the Arctic and North Atlantic.
Several European countries have since sent small numbers of personnel to Greenland as part of what has been described as a reconnaissance mission.
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said any decision on Greenland’s future “belongs to the people of Greenland and the Kingdom of Denmark alone”, calling the use of tariffs against allies “wrong”.
Nordic diplomacy
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre confirmed he had raised concerns directly with Trump, alongside Finland’s president Alexander Stubb. The leaders urged de-escalation and proposed a three-way phone call.
Støre later revealed that Trump responded with a strongly worded message linking the Greenland dispute to a separate grievance.
Nobel grievance
In the message, obtained by US media and confirmed by CBS News, Trump complained that he had not been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.
“Considering your Country decided not to give me the Nobel Peace Prize for having stopped 8 Wars PLUS, I no longer feel an obligation to think purely of Peace,” Trump wrote, adding that “The World is not secure unless we have Complete and Total Control of Greenland”.
Støre said the Nobel Prize is decided by an independent committee, not the Norwegian government. Trump has long expressed frustration at never receiving the award.
Wider implications
Trump also questioned Denmark’s historical claim to Greenland and said Nato should do more for the US, arguing he has contributed more to the alliance than any other leader.
The comments have deepened concerns among allies about Washington’s direction, as diplomatic and military talks continue behind the scenes.
Sources: BBC, CBS News
