Stockholm condemned US trade restrictions and sought allies in response
Sweden expressed strong opposition to US pressure on the issue of Greenland's territorial ownership. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson called the trade restrictions that Washington linked to the situation around the island unacceptable.
The reason for Stockholm's reaction was the announcement of new tariffs on goods from Europe. The United States plans to impose tariffs on products from several countries, including Sweden, in a bid to achieve the transfer of Greenland under its control. Swedish authorities consider this approach a violation of the principles of partnership.
“We will not allow ourselves to be blackmailed. This is an EU problem that affects many more countries than those currently considered separate,” Ulf Kristersson wrote on social media.
Kristersson said talks were underway with Norway, Britain and other partners to come up with a common response to Washington's actions. Previously, US President Donald Trump announced a 10% tax on goods from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, England, Finland and the Netherlands. The restrictions will come into effect on February 1, and by June 1, the rate could increase to 25%.
The US leader has repeatedly raised the issue of Greenland joining the US. During his first term, he proposed purchasing the island, and in March 2025, he expressed confidence in the possibility of annexing the island. Greenland is currently an autonomous territory of Denmark, but Washington is obligated to protect the island under a 1951 treaty.
