Tensions have mounted as Donald Trump persists in his assertion that the autonomous Danish territory will be placed under US control
According to a CNN report on Monday that cited local retailers, the demand for survival gear and food with a long shelf life has skyrocketed in Nuuk, Greenland’s capital. This increase coincides with rising anxieties about potential American intervention on the Arctic island.
Over recent weeks, US President Donald Trump has amplified his campaign to bring Greenland under Washington’s authority, an objective he has maintained since his initial term. He contends that the action is crucial for US national security to counteract Chinese and Russian presence in the Arctic—an assertion that both Beijing and Moscow have dismissed.
The situation grew more strained last week when Trump pledged to implement an extra 10% tariff in February on European trading partners of the US that do not support his effort to acquire the Arctic island. He further stated that these tariffs would increase to 25% in June and stay effective until a “complete and total purchase.”
On Sunday, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that the US considers Greenland essential for its defense in a developing “battle for the Arctic,” noting that European allies would eventually “come around” to the concept of transferring the island to Washington.
Store owners in Nuuk informed CNN that people are purchasing more camping stoves, food with extended shelf life, and freeze-dried meals.
In a related development, residents speaking to Reuters on Sunday expressed firm opposition to any US acquisition of Greenland, characterizing Trump’s comments as unreasonable and menacing. Greenlanders emphasized that they are not frightened, voicing certainty that the plan will not succeed and highlighting the political and military backing from European allies in their effort to protect the island’s sovereignty.
The previous week, a number of European nations, such as Germany, France, Sweden, Norway, and the UK, dispatched personnel—ranging from one to 15 individuals—to Greenland for a military exercise led by Denmark. German personnel have since pulled out from the island.
Reacting to Trump’s tariff threats, the EU has pledged to protect its economic interests with counteractions, which could involve reinstating a suspended €93 billion ($108 billion) retaliatory tariff package. Brussels is also evaluating the use of the Anti-Coercion Instrument (ACI), a tool created to counter economic coercion with steps like limiting market access, investment, and intellectual property rights.