WASHINGTON — U.S. President Donald Trump escalated geopolitical tensions on Tuesday by reaffirming his determination for the United States to take control of Greenland, while also saying he no longer feels bound to focus solely on peace after failing to receive the Nobel Peace Prize.

In a message addressed to Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Trump criticized Norway for not awarding him the Nobel Prize, claiming credit for ending “eight wars and more.” “I no longer feel obligated to think only about peace, although it will always remain paramount,” Trump wrote, adding that he can now focus on “what is good and appropriate for the United States of America.”

Trump was even more forceful regarding Greenland, an autonomous territory under Danish sovereignty, declaring that “the world will not be safe unless we have complete and total control of Greenland.” He refused to rule out the use of force and shared AI-generated images on social media depicting himself on the Arctic island holding a U.S. flag.

The remarks have rattled European leaders and threatened NATO unity, as Denmark is a key member of the alliance. European officials warned that Trump’s stance could seriously undermine transatlantic relations and reignite a trade war between the United States and the European Union.

The EU is now considering retaliatory measures, including tariffs on up to €93 billion worth of U.S. imports and the possible activation of its Anti-Coercion Instrument, which could restrict access to public procurement, investments, financial services and digital trade dominated by U.S. companies.

Denmark’s Economy Minister Stephanie Lose described the situation as “serious,” stating that no options should be ruled out. Meanwhile, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent sought to calm markets, dismissing what he called “hysteria” and expressing confidence that a solution would ensure national security for both the United States and Europe.

Russia has also weighed in, with its foreign minister questioning Danish sovereignty over Greenland, while global markets reacted nervously, with European stocks falling and the dollar weakening amid fears of renewed trade and geopolitical confrontation.