EU may use sanctions if US seeks control over Greenland — The Economist

The European Union may resort to economic measures if the United States attempts to establish control over Greenland, The Economist reports.

Possible steps include the introduction of sanctions and tariffs, as well as the annulment of the trade agreement signed in 2025.

The publication notes that another lever of pressure on the US could be the American military bases in Europe. Without them, Washington would find it difficult to project military power into Africa and the Middle East, as well as maintain a significant presence in the Arctic.

According to The Economist, a tougher economic approach could become possible if European countries increase their defence spending. However, a new trade war would put serious pressure on EU national budgets.

Trump's January 17 Truth Social post announced the tariffs as leverage for "Complete and Total purchase" of Greenland, citing security needs against Russia/China. European leaders (e.g., Macron, von der Leyen, Starmer) condemned it as unacceptable coercion, vowing unity. An EU emergency ambassadors' meeting was called for January 18/19. Protests continue in Greenland and Denmark, with fears the dispute could undermine NATO's future. As of January 18, 2026, tariffs are set to begin February 1 unless resolved.

By Khagan Isayev