PALM BEACH, United States (AFP) — US President Donald Trump on Saturday escalated his quest to acquire Greenland, threatening multiple European nations with tariffs of up to 25 percent until he achieves his goal of controlling the Danish territory.

If realized, Trump’s threats against Washington’s North Atlantic Treaty Organization partners would create unprecedented tension within the alliance.

It is also emerging as a test case for the future of international law and intensifying geopolitical competition in the Arctic.

Leaders across Europe have framed the issue as one of sovereignty and self-determination, warning that allowing pressure tactics to succeed could weaken international law globally.

While Washington cites international security, European officials counter that security cannot be built by destabilizing partners or disregarding the wishes of local populations.