Threats by U.S. President Donald Trump to impose new customs tariffs on eight NATO countries over the Greenland issue are striking a blow to transatlantic relations and could lead to increased tensions.

Axar.az reports that this was stated in a joint declaration by the United Kingdom, Germany, Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, Finland, France, and Sweden.

The document was released by the German government’s press service.

“We express our full solidarity with the Kingdom of Denmark and the people of Greenland. Referring to the process that began last week, we are ready to enter into dialogue based on the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. We firmly defend these principles,” the document emphasized.

The statement noted that threats to impose tariffs not only damage relations but also carry serious risks:

“We will continue to respond as a united front and in a coordinated manner. We are determined to protect our sovereignty.”

The document also highlighted that ensuring security in the Arctic is a collective NATO responsibility, noting that the “Arctic Endurance” exercises conducted under Denmark’s coordination pose no threat to any party.

It should be recalled that earlier, Trump had declared that until an agreement is reached for the U.S. to “fully and permanently acquire” Greenland, a 10% import tariff would be imposed on the eight countries mentioned.