Sweden and EU Respond Firmly to Trump's Tariffs Over Greenland Military Presence

On January 18, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 10% tariff on exports from Sweden and several other European countries, set to take effect on February 1, with a planned increase to 25% by June 1. The tariffs target countries involved in military activities in Greenland, which Trump described as posing a “very dangerous situation for security, safety, and the survival of our planet.” The affected nations include Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson condemned the tariffs, stating on social media that Sweden "will not be extorted" and emphasizing that decisions concerning Greenland belong solely to Denmark and Greenland. Sweden is coordinating with the EU, Norway, and the UK to mount a collective response, warning that such tariffs threaten transatlantic relations and could lead to a downward spiral economically and politically.

Nordic leaders, such as Norway's Jonas Gahr Støre and Finland's Petteri Orpo, expressed solidarity with Denmark and Greenland, underscoring the importance of NATO unity for Arctic security. EU officials including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and French President Emmanuel Macron echoed concerns that the tariffs could damage transatlantic cooperation and vowed possible coordinated European countermeasures.

Swedish ministers testified to the domestic resilience, with Finance Minister Elisabeth Svantesson highlighting the economy's stability and readiness to confront potential trade disruptions.

The geopolitical tensions coincide with increased defense cooperation between Sweden, Denmark, and Greenland, as well as Sweden's commitment to increase defense spending to meet NATO's 5% GDP target by 2030. Despite some domestic debate about NATO membership under Trump’s leadership, Sweden maintains its strategy for collective security and cooperation in the Arctic region.

Swedish commentators emphasize prudence and unity against these challenges, with a call for serious, security-focused public discourse amidst rising tensions. The situation remains volatile as diplomatic and economic negotiations continue, with a firm stance from Sweden and its partners to reject perceived blackmail and protect regional security interests.