Sweden rejects US “blackmail” on Greenland, plans joint response

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson has forcefully rejected new US tariff measures announced in connection with Greenland, labeling the economic threat as “blackmail” and pledging a coordinated European response. The statement came after US President Donald Trump declared tariffs on goods from several European countries, citing national security concerns related to the Arctic territory.

Firm Rejection of Coercive Tactics

In a post on the social media platform X, Kristersson stated unequivocally, “We will not let ourselves be blackmailed.” He emphasized the principle of sovereignty, asserting that “Only Denmark and Greenland decide on issues concerning Denmark and Greenland.” The Swedish leader framed the dispute as a broader European issue, noting it affects many more countries than those initially targeted by the US trade action.

Forging a Unified Allied Front

Kristersson revealed that diplomatic efforts are underway to mount a collective countermeasure. “Sweden is now having intensive discussions with other EU countries, Norway, and the United Kingdom for a coordinated response,” he said. This move signals an attempt to present a united front among Washington's traditional allies against what is perceived as an instrumental use of trade policy to advance geopolitical objectives over Greenland.

Roots in the Greenland Dispute

The tariffs are the latest escalation in a long-standing US interest in Greenland, a self-governing Danish territory rich in minerals and strategically located in the Arctic. President Trump has repeatedly expressed a desire for the US to acquire the island, citing national security and the goal of preempting Russian or Chinese influence. Both the Danish government and Greenland’s authorities have consistently and firmly rejected any possibility of a sale, maintaining that the island is not for sale.