Sweden responds to Trump: We will not be intimidated over Greenland
In a firm stance reflecting escalating transatlantic diplomatic tensions, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson asserted that his country categorically rejects any policy of dictation, declaring that Sweden “will not be intimidated.” This strong response came on Saturday following US President Donald Trump’s announcement of new punitive tariffs on several European countries, including Sweden, as a form of political pressure to force Denmark to sell Greenland to the United States.
Details of the crisis and the Swedish response
In an official letter, Kristersson clarified that sovereign decisions of states cannot be compromised under economic threats, stating: “We will not be intimidated. Denmark and Greenland alone decide on matters concerning them. I will always defend my country and our allied neighbors.” This statement confirms Sweden’s support for its neighbor Denmark in the face of what Europeans consider an infringement on national sovereignty.
Moves to form a united European front
Sweden did not limit itself to verbal rejection but launched intensive diplomatic efforts to formulate a collective response. The Swedish Prime Minister added, “Sweden is currently engaged in intensive discussions with other EU member states, Norway, and the United Kingdom to reach a joint response.” This coordination indicates the European Union’s desire to send a unified message to Washington that using tariffs as a weapon to achieve geopolitical ambitions is unacceptable and could be met with similar measures.
Background to American interest in Greenland
Trump's desire to acquire Greenland is not a recent development. The self-governing island, under the Danish crown, holds immense strategic importance for the United States. Located in a vital Arctic position, Greenland possesses vast natural resources and rare minerals, in addition to its military significance as the host of the US Thule Air Base. Trump had previously floated the idea of purchasing Greenland during his earlier term, a proposal that was met with staunch rejection and dismissed by Denmark as a "ridiculous joke." However, the renewed interest, coupled with the threat of a 25% economic penalty, transforms the issue from mere rhetoric into a genuine economic crisis.
Public anger and international repercussions
On the popular level, the American announcement did not go unnoticed. Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, and other Danish cities, including Copenhagen, witnessed massive demonstrations protesting the treatment of the island and its inhabitants as commodities to be bought and sold. Analysts believe that linking tariffs to a politically motivated real estate deal sets a dangerous precedent in international relations, potentially undermining trust between the United States and its traditional European allies and plunging the global economy into a new cycle of trade wars that would destabilize global markets.
