By Micah Jonah
January 7, 2026
The United States has raised the prospect of using military force to acquire Greenland, prompting European and Canadian leaders to reaffirm that the island belongs to its people.
The White House said President Donald Trump views acquiring Greenland, part of Denmark, as a national security priority, necessary to deter adversaries in the Arctic region. The statement added that using the U.S. military remains an option.
Any attempt to seize Greenland from Denmark, a longtime NATO ally, could strain relations within the alliance. European countries including France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, and the United Kingdom joined Denmark in stating that Greenland’s affairs should be decided by Denmark and Greenland alone. Canada also expressed support, announcing a planned visit to Greenland by Governor General, Mary Simon and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Anita Anand.
Trump’s interest in Greenland, first publicly stated in 2019, has intensified following the U.S. abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. He has claimed controlling Greenland is vital to national security, citing the presence of foreign powers and questioning Denmark’s capacity to protect the island.
Greenland, the world’s largest island with a population of 57,000, has repeatedly said it does not want to become part of the U.S. Its strategic location is key to the U.S. ballistic missile defence system and its mineral resources could reduce dependence on Chinese exports.
Louisiana Governor, Jeff Landry, recently appointed by Trump as U.S. special envoy to Greenland said he intends to speak directly with Greenland residents about improving quality of life on the island.
Danish officials rejected Trump’s claim that Greenland is vulnerable to foreign influence, invited the U.S. to increase investments in the region. Greenland’s government requested an urgent meeting with U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio to discuss the situation.
Members of the U.S. Congress, including Republicans and Democrats, urged respect for Danish sovereignty and treaty obligations.
