US Explores Military Options for Greenland Acquisition Amid International Backlash

Thu Jan 08 2026 15:57:36 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The White House reveals that President Trump is considering military options to acquire Greenland, which has drawn sharp criticism from European allies and raised concerns among Greenlanders.

In a controversial move, President Donald Trump has been exploring various options, including military intervention, to acquire Greenland, citing national security priorities. The announcement has sparked a strong response from Denmark and several European leaders, who reaffirmed Greenland's sovereignty and called for diplomatic dialogue. This development adds tension in the Arctic region as global powers, including Russia and China, show increasing interest in the territory's resources and strategic location.

The White House disclosed that President Donald Trump is discussing 'a range of options' to acquire Greenland, including potential military action. This statement highlights an escalating focus on the Arctic territory among US leadership.

Denmark, which maintains sovereignty over Greenland, received the assertion with serious concern. In a joint statement, European leaders emphasized that 'Greenland belongs to its people,' affirming their support for Denmark and demanding respect for international law.

Trump reiterated the view that securing Greenland is essential for national and geopolitical security, a sentiment recently echoed by related US officials. The Danish Prime Minister has warned that a military takeover would jeopardize NATO relations.

Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen responded that any discussions regarding the territory's future must adhere to principles of international law and territorial integrity.

The US has suggested various strategies, including outright purchase or forming cooperative agreements with Greenland, although previous comments from Trump hinted at more aggressive intentions.

This renewed interest in Greenland coincides with increasing geopolitical rivalry in the Arctic, particularly from Russia and China, raising ethical and diplomatic questions around the future of this strategically significant region.

Greenland, home to 57,000 residents, enjoys a high degree of autonomy but remains under Danish control for matters of defense and foreign policy. Public sentiment in Greenland currently leans toward independence from Denmark rather than becoming part of the US, with concerns about sovereignty and loss of self-identity.

As global powers vie for influence in the melting Arctic, the approach taken by the US towards Greenland will significantly shape future diplomatic relations in the region.