Trump's Ambitions: The Controversial Quest for Greenland

Thu Jan 08 2026 22:53:24 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

An exploration of Donald Trump's desire to acquire Greenland, including military options and political ramifications. Could the U.S. change its relationship with the Arctic territory?

Donald Trump's interest in Greenland has sparked debate about potential military action, the legal implications of such a move, and the concept of purchasing the territory. Analysts weigh in on the feasibility and consequences of these actions, emphasizing the unlikely nature of military intervention and the various ways the U.S. could approach the acquisition.

Donald Trump wants to take Greenland - and the White House has confirmed that all options are on the table, including the use of force.

While a military operation is just one of a range of economic and political options being considered, since it would be an attack by one NATO member on another, such a move would present a nightmare scenario for the NATO alliance and likely an existential one.

Trump has repeatedly stated that Greenland is vital to U.S. national security, asserting without evidence that it is 'covered with Russian and Chinese ships all over the place.'

Military analysts suggest that a rapid operation to seize Greenland could be executed relatively easily, yet the fallout would be monumental given the territory's unique geopolitical positioning. The population of around 58,000 is small compared to its vast geographical expanse, and Greenland is defended by limited military assets from Denmark.

However, the idea of military action has drawn criticism from former officials and defense analysts, who argue it would violate international law and fundamentally harm U.S.-European alliances.

Meanwhile, discussions of purchasing Greenland have also arisen, but both Nuuk and Copenhagen maintain that the territory is not for sale. Any attempt to buy it would require Congressional appropriations and complex treaty negotiations involving international law.

Public sentiment in Greenland leans toward independence from Denmark, but opinion polls indicate that the people are generally uninterested in U.S. territory status, which complicates any possible initiatives from Washington.

Overall, as experts predict a more favorable approach through influence and dialogue rather than military confrontation, the future of Greenland remains uncertain amid evolving U.S. foreign policy priorities.