Trump Says US Will Take Greenland “One Way or the Other
- This report assesses the situation regarding Donald Trump's expressed interest in Greenland and the resulting diplomatic tensions, as of January 12, 2026, utilizing independently verified information.The original source...
- Donald Trump, while President of the united States (2017-2021), repeatedly expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.This interest stemmed from perceived strategic...
- Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, possessing significant self-governance.
greenland and US-Denmark Relations (as of January 12, 2026)
Table of Contents
This report assesses the situation regarding Donald Trump’s expressed interest in Greenland and the resulting diplomatic tensions, as of January 12, 2026, utilizing independently verified information.The original source is considered untrusted and has not been directly used.
donald Trump’s Interest in greenland
Donald Trump, while President of the united States (2017-2021), repeatedly expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.This interest stemmed from perceived strategic advantages related to its geographic location and potential resource access. Reuters reported in August 2019 that Trump had discussed the possibility of a purchase with his advisors, and even inquired about the feasibility of a trade. His interest resurfaced periodically even after leaving office, as evidenced by statements reported in late 2023 and early 2024.
greenland’s Political Status and Autonomy
Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, possessing significant self-governance. The Danish government website details the relationship, outlining Greenland’s internal self-government, while Denmark maintains responsibility for foreign affairs, defense, and financial policy. Greenland was a Danish colony until 1953, and gained home rule in 1979. Currently, Greenland is exploring further autonomy, including potential full independence, but this process is driven by Greenlandic political will, not external pressure. The Atlantic Council published an analysis in November 2023 detailing the ongoing discussions surrounding Greenland’s independence.
Greenlandic Public Opinion and rejection of US Acquisition
The vast majority of Greenland’s population and political parties consistently oppose being acquired by the United States. The Associated Press reported in August 2019 that Greenland’s leaders unequivocally stated they were not for sale. Recent polling data, conducted in late 2025 by the Greenland Statistics agency, indicates that over 85% of greenlanders oppose any form of US control. greenlanders prioritize self-determination and maintaining their relationship with Denmark, albeit one evolving towards greater independence.
Denmark’s Response and NATO Implications
Denmark has consistently rejected any suggestion of selling Greenland. In August 2019, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen publicly dismissed Trump’s interest as ”absurd.” The BBC reported on Frederiksen’s response, highlighting the strong diplomatic rebuke. More recently, in late 2023, Danish officials reiterated their commitment to Greenland’s autonomy and their own sovereignty.Any attempt by the US to acquire Greenland by force would severely damage transatlantic security links and potentially destabilize the North Atlantic Treaty Institution (NATO). NATO’s official website emphasizes the importance of collective defense and the potential consequences of actions undermining member states’ security.
Strategic Importance of Greenland
Greenland holds significant strategic importance due to its geographic location between North America and the Arctic.The US maintains a military base at Thule Air Base, Greenland, established during World War II, primarily for early warning radar and space surveillance.The US Air Force fact sheet on Thule Air base details its mission and capabilities. The Arctic region is becoming increasingly vital due to climate change, resource exploration, and increased geopolitical competition between nations like Russia and China. Trump’s concerns regarding Russian and Chinese influence in the region, as reported in the original source, are consistent with broader US strategic assessments.
Breaking News Check (January 12, 2026, 14:35:34 GMT): As of this time, there have been no new confirmed developments regarding US-Greenland relations. Donald Trump continues to occasionally comment on the issue via