In a bold move to protest against Donald Trump’s provocative remarks regarding Greenland, a new Danish app aims to empower consumers to shun American products. Yet, as one reporter discovered, the challenge of living without US goods for just 24 hours is fraught with complications and reveals the deep-rooted ties that bind Europe to the United States.
The Backlash Against Trump’s Threats
Last month, Trump’s suggestion that military intervention could be considered in the pursuit of Greenland—a territory under Danish sovereignty—sent waves of outrage rippling through Europe. Thousands of Danes took to the streets of Copenhagen, rallying under the banner “Greenland is not for sale,” echoing a sentiment that reverberated throughout the continent. This unprecedented mobilization sparked a tech-driven response in Denmark, leading to the launch of apps like UdenUSA and Made O’Meter, designed to help consumers identify and avoid American-made products.
The Reality of a Boycott
When tasked with the challenge of a 24-hour boycott of US goods, the initial excitement quickly faded into frustration. Armed with a smartphone and the newly downloaded apps, the reporter was determined to demonstrate that Europe could stand independently from American influence. Yet, in mere moments, the futility of this endeavour became apparent. The devices in hand—an Apple MacBook Pro and a Samsung smartphone—were glaring reminders of the omnipresent American tech ecosystem.
This irony was compounded by the fact that even basic tasks, such as writing notes, were reliant on US products. The global dominance of American technology is undeniable. According to a recent Ofcom report, more than half of UK smartphone users aged 16 and over in 2025 were using Apple’s iPhones, while streaming platforms like Netflix connect with a staggering 17.6 million households across the UK.
A Struggle in the Supermarket Aisles
Determined to avoid the pitfalls of technology, the reporter ventured into the world of British literature and local football, only to find that the spectre of American ownership loomed large over even the most cherished pastimes. Attempting to watch a Chelsea match, the reporter realised that TNT Sports—formerly BT Sport—was owned by Warner Bros Discovery, a US entertainment giant. This revelation underscored the creeping Americanisation of British sport, as many of the country’s top football clubs are now under majority US ownership.
The next day, a trip to the supermarket offered a glimmer of hope. With around 60 per cent of the food consumed in the UK sourced domestically, it appeared that a small victory could be claimed. However, the victory was short-lived; a visit to the local gym later revealed that their operations were backed by US private equity, highlighting the inescapable reality of American influence in everyday life.
The Unavoidable Truth
As the boycott drew to a close, the reporter’s journey highlighted an uncomfortable truth: Europe’s dependency on American goods and services is woven into the fabric of daily existence. Despite aspirations for “strategic autonomy,” the US remains a critical player in the European economy, accounting for approximately 17–18% of the UK’s total trade in goods and services. The attempt to disengage from American products for just a day illuminated the deep-seated connections that persist across the Atlantic.
Why it Matters
This failed boycott reflects a broader narrative about the complexities of globalisation and the stronghold that American culture and commerce maintain over Europe. As tensions rise and calls for independence grow louder, the challenge of disentangling from US influence is not merely a matter of consumer choice; it speaks to the foundational economic and cultural ties that shape our lives. Understanding this reality is essential as Europe grapples with its identity and the delicate balance of power in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
