Philenews

US Official Links Greenland Acquisition to Trade, Calls Europe 'Weak'

Published January 18, 2026, 18:10
US Official Links Greenland Acquisition to Trade, Calls Europe 'Weak'

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended President Donald Trump's decision to impose tariffs on eight European countries, linking it to the need for Greenland to become US territory. Bessent argued that enhanced security requires US control of Greenland, citing plans for a missile shield in the region. He also characterized Europe as 'very weak' and expressed confidence that European leaders would recognize the need to be under US protection. He denied that this move would affect the US-EU trade agreement, arguing that an emergency action differs from a long-term deal. The statement has sparked reactions, with some suggesting that a US takeover of Greenland would mean the end of NATO, which Bessent dismissed.