Washington, January 15, 2026:: US President Donald Trump has once again reignited a major geopolitical debate by asserting that anything short of American control over Greenland is “unacceptable,” arguing that the Arctic territory is central to US national security and the future strength of NATO.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said Greenland’s strategic location makes it indispensable for the United States, claiming that NATO would become far more formidable and effective if Greenland were under US control. He added that the alliance should actively support Washington’s efforts, warning that if the United States does not act, Russia or China will, a scenario he insisted would not be allowed to happen.
Trump also linked Greenland to the US missile defence architecture, describing the island as vital to what he called the “Golden Dome” missile defence system being developed by the Pentagon. According to him, Greenland’s geography is crucial for early warning systems and broader Arctic security planning.
Greenland remains a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, and Trump’s renewed comments have drawn firm resistance from European leaders. Greenland’s Premier Jens-Frederik Nielsen reiterated that the island does not seek to become part of the United States and that its future will be decided by its own people in coordination with Denmark.
France responded sharply, with President Emmanuel Macron warning that any attempt by Washington to seize Greenland from Denmark would have unprecedented consequences. He stressed that European sovereignty is non-negotiable and said France stands in full solidarity with Denmark.
The European Commission also weighed in, with Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stating that Greenland belongs to its people and that the issue must be resolved by Denmark and Greenland themselves. European officials underlined that while Arctic security is a shared concern, it cannot come at the expense of allied sovereignty.
Denmark, meanwhile, has increased its defence activity in the Arctic. The Danish Defence Command confirmed heightened operational presence over the past year, including training and routine deployments, as part of preparations for potential future contingencies.
Trump’s remarks have once again highlighted intensifying strategic competition in the Arctic, a region gaining importance due to climate change, emerging shipping routes and growing security considerations. While Washington frames its interest in Greenland as a defensive necessity, European allies view the rhetoric as a challenge to established alliances and international norms.
