On January 19, Secretary Bessent cautioned against European retaliation to tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump over Greenland. He stated that President Trump views Denmark's Greenland as a "strategic asset" and that the US "will not entrust its regional security to anyone else."

When asked about the possibility of European nations responding to Trump's tariffs concerning Greenland, Secretary Bessent issued a direct warning: "That would be a very unwise action."

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in Davos, Switzerland, January 19. Photo: AP

President Trump previously announced a 10% tariff on 8 European countries: the UK, Denmark, France, Germany, Finland, the Netherlands, and Norway. These tariffs are set to take effect from February 1 and will increase to 25% by June 1.

Trump affirmed that these measures will remain in place until the US achieves a "complete and full" agreement to acquire Greenland. The European Union (EU), with 6 member countries impacted by the tariffs, expressed a desire for dialogue with the US but also affirmed its readiness to retaliate.

While not commenting on specific "buyout" options for Greenland, Secretary Bessent emphasized that only President Trump's statements represent the definitive basis for discussions. He noted the US's historical acquisitions, such as the Panama Canal from the French and the US Virgin Islands from the Danes, as precedents.

Bessent also highlighted Greenland's strategic importance, particularly as a source of rare earth minerals, which are crucial for advanced technologies.

Ngoc Anh (According to AFP, Reuters, CNN)