Trump’s Nobel grievance fuels Greenland tariff threat In a text to Norway’s prime minister, President Trump said the Nobel Peace Prize committee’s decision freed him from “thinking purely of peace,” directly tying his personal slight to a hard‑line stance on Greenland [1][2]. He simultaneously announced a 10 percent import tax on goods from eight nations aligned with Denmark and Greenland, explicitly naming Norway among the targets [1][2]. The tariff is framed as leverage to force a Greenland purchase, marking a sharp escalation in U.S. Arctic policy.

European leaders condemn and prepare counter‑measures The United Kingdom’s foreign secretary labeled the tariff threat “inappropriate and counter‑productive,” pledging diplomatic engagement instead of punitive trade actions [2]. EU officials echoed the criticism, stating they aim to avoid a tariff confrontation while warning they will defend European economic interests if coercion persists [2][1]. Allied governments publicly rebuked the move, emphasizing alliance cohesion and readiness to resist U.S. pressure [1].

Greenland protests intensify as Danish troops arrive Thousands of Greenlanders marched over the weekend, rejecting any U.S. attempt to control the territory and affirming the island’s resolve [1]. Denmark responded by deploying additional troops to Greenland, citing “red lines” that must not be crossed but denying any intent to escalate [2]. The prime minister of Greenland reiterated that tariff threats will not alter the island’s stance on autonomy [1].

White House validates message, hints at dialogue The White House confirmed the authenticity of Trump’s text to Norway and noted ongoing de‑escalation efforts, including potential meetings at Davos and with European leaders [1]. While maintaining a firm position on Greenland, officials signaled openness to diplomatic channels to reduce tensions [1]. This dual approach reflects an attempt to balance hard‑line pressure with back‑channel negotiations.

Side issues surface amid Arctic dispute An Israeli official reported that Prime Minister Netanyahu was invited to join a U.S.–led “Board of Peace” for Gaza, a proposal France’s president declined, highlighting broader diplomatic friction [2]. The invitation and its rejection illustrate how the Greenland saga is intersecting with other international controversies [2]. These ancillary developments underscore the complex geopolitical environment surrounding the tariff and Arctic negotiations.