US President Donald Trump has ruled out using force to control Greenland, stating “I don’t want to use force. I won’t use force” during his speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. However, he emphasized that no other country can secure the Danish territory, saying “No nation or group of nations is in any position to be able to secure Greenland other than the United States”.
Trump’s comments have frayed transatlantic ties and worried Europeans, overshadowing his speech focused on the US economy. He chastised European allies for their insolence and disloyalty, calling Denmark “ungrateful” and downplaying the issue as a “small ask” over a “piece of ice”.
The US President mistakenly referred to Greenland as Iceland several times during his speech, which lasted over an hour. He is seeking immediate negotiations to discuss the acquisition of Greenland by the United States, sparking concerns among NATO leaders that his strategy could upend the alliance.
Denmark and Greenland’s leaders have offered alternatives for greater US presence on the strategic island territory of 57,000 people. Trump’s Greenland strategy has dominated the agenda at the World Economic Forum, where global elites discuss economic and political trends.
Trump View Greenland as Strategic Island for National Security
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized that US views Greenland as crucial for national security, citing its importance for the “golden dome” missile shield. Bessent warned that Greenland’s strategic value increases the risk of confrontation if another power attempts to assert control.
European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, have condemned Trump’s threats as unacceptable. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has engaged with Trump on the issue, with the US President agreeing to a meeting in Davos.
Trump’s actions have sparked protests in Greenland, with residents expressing anti-US sentiments. The Danish government has reiterated that Greenland is not for sale, and NATO allies are concerned about the implications for the alliance.
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