Tariffs, Geopolitics, and Greenland: When Trade Policy Becomes a Pressure Tool
- Schulz Trade Law
- Jan 17
- 2 min read
Tariffs, Geopolitics, and Greenland
When Trade Policy Becomes a Pressure Tool
Michelle Schulz weighs in on tariff threats tied to national security claims—and what they signal for global trade.
In a KNX Radio news segment out of Los Angeles, Michelle Schulz, founder and managing partner of Schulz Trade Law, commented on a surprising escalation in tariff rhetoric: the suggestion that the United States could impose tariffs on countries that resist U.S. demands related to Greenland. The remarks come amid continued uncertainty over the Supreme Court’s pending decision on the legality of the president’s global tariffs, highlighting how trade policy is increasingly entangled with geopolitics and executive power.
Tariffs as a Geopolitical Lever
Schulz explained that the president’s comments immediately triggered a diplomatic fallout, prompting lawmakers to intervene to de-escalate tensions.
“This statement really caused an uproar on both sides of the aisle.”
According to Michelle, a group of U.S. senators traveled to Copenhagen to calm the situation, but discussions fell short of a resolution.
“They agreed to have a working group, but we are still very much at odds.”
The episode underscores that tariffs are no longer framed solely as economic tools but are increasingly seen as instruments of foreign policy and leverage.
National Security Claims and Legal Fragility
The tariff threat was framed around national security, despite the U.S. already maintaining a military presence in Greenland. Michelle noted that this argument closely parallels the broader legal debate currently before the Supreme Court of the United States.
“It continues to get pushed out, which makes some people think they may be more likely to rule in the President’s favor.”
However, Michelle cautioned against assuming delay signals approval.
“I still think it’s less likely because of the way the laws are written.”
Her remarks reinforce a consistent theme across recent interviews: while tariff authority has expanded in practice, its legal foundation remains vulnerable.
What This Signals for Businesses and Trade Partners
For importers and multinational companies, the Greenland episode is less about the island itself and more about precedent.
If tariffs can be threatened—or imposed—as leverage in unrelated geopolitical disputes, trade risk becomes harder to predict and price.
The lack of clarity around both diplomatic outcomes and judicial review amplifies uncertainty, particularly for companies operating across borders or dependent on stable supply chains.
Trade policy is no longer driven by economics alone. As tariffs become entwined with geopolitics, executive authority, and unresolved legal challenges, businesses must stay vigilant.
Schulz Trade Law helps importers and global companies assess risk, navigate sudden policy shifts, and prepare for rapid changes in the trade landscape.
Trade on, but trade informed!
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