Greenland and Trade Developments

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen McEntee TD, today updated Government on the situation in Greenland following the announcement on 17 January by the US President of tariffs applying on 6 EU Member States, the UK and Norway from next month.

The Government has underlined its consistent position on the issue of Greenland’s future in recent days. The Taoiseach, Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade have all stated that the future of Greenland is a matter to be determined by Denmark and by the Greenlandic people, in line with well-established democratic principles and international law.

Ministers were updated on discussions among EU ambassadors in Brussels on Sunday on the latest developments concerning the Arctic island and on the convening of an extraordinary European Council meeting on Thursday 22 January.

Minister McEntee said: “The announcement by President Trump regarding Greenland, notably the decision to impose tariffs on six EU Member States, the UK and Norway, is completely unacceptable and deeply regrettable.

“Tariffs of this kind would undermine transatlantic relations and are incompatible with the EU-US trade agreement.

“The Government’s approach, and that of the EU, has been calm but firm in emphasising the need for dialogue and deescalation, as well as clear preparation for negative scenarios after 1 February.

“I will continue to coordinate closely with EU and wider European partners and will keep Government informed as the situation develops.”

ENDS

Press Office

20 January 2026