THE HAGUE — Dutch Foreign Minister David van Weel has strongly condemned U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed import tariffs on several European allies, describing them as “blackmail” and an inappropriate tactic in relations between longstanding partners.
The criticism follows Trump’s announcement that he plans to impose a 10 percent tariff from February 1 on goods imported from countries participating in NATO activities in Greenland — including Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Finland and the Netherlands. This tariff would potentially rise to 25 percent on June 1 unless the U.S. reaches a deal on its interest in purchasing Greenland.
Speaking on Dutch television, Van Weel called the tariff strategy “blackmail” and “not the way to work with your allies,” saying it threatens unity within NATO and undermines diplomatic cooperation. He labelled Trump’s plan “ridiculous” and stressed that the participation of European nations in Greenland was intended to demonstrate solidarity on regional security, with no hostile intent toward the United States.
European and NATO Response
European leaders have broadly criticized Trump’s approach, framing it as coercive and potentially harmful to transatlantic relations. In response, the European Union signalled readiness for countermeasures, including the possibility of activating its anti-coercion instrument — a trade defense tool that could impose retaliatory tariffs or other restrictions on U.S. goods.
In addition, several NATO members issued statements warning that tariffs could lead to a “dangerous downward spiral” in relations if used as leverage in territorial negotiations.
Amid the growing diplomatic tension, EU leaders continue emergency discussions and prepare for high-level talks with U.S. officials later this week during the World Economic Forum in Davos, where Trump and European counterparts are expected to meet.
Implications for International Relations
The unfolding dispute highlights rising strain between the United States and some of its closest allies. Critics argue that using economic sanctions or tariffs to pressure support for territorial interests — particularly over sovereign decisions like Greenland’s future — could undermine longstanding security partnerships and complicate cooperation on global challenges.
The situation remains fluid, with European governments watching developments closely in the coming weeks as potential trade retaliation and diplomatic negotiations unfold.