Trump says US will act on Greenland whether they like it or not

Washington / Copenhagen — January 11, 2026

Former US president Donald Trump has reignited international controversy by declaring that the United States will act on Greenland “whether they like it or not,” a statement that has drawn sharp reactions from Denmark, Greenlandic leaders and Western allies concerned about escalating geopolitical tensions in the Arctic.

Speaking at a campaign-style rally in the United States, Trump reiterated his long-standing interest in Greenland, framing the territory as strategically vital to American national security. His remarks appeared to revive ideas first raised during his presidency, when he controversially suggested that the US should purchase Greenland — a proposal that was swiftly rejected by Denmark and Greenland’s autonomous government.

“Greenland is too important to be ignored,” Trump told supporters. “We will act in America’s interest, whether they like it or not.” The statement was met with applause at the rally but prompted immediate diplomatic unease abroad.

Renewed Focus on Arctic Strategy

Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, occupies a critical geographic position between North America and Europe. It hosts important US military infrastructure, including the Pituffik Space Base (formerly Thule Air Base), which plays a key role in missile defence and space surveillance.

In recent years, the Arctic has emerged as a focal point of global strategic competition. Melting ice has opened new shipping routes and increased access to natural resources, drawing heightened interest from the United States, Russia and China. Security analysts say Trump’s remarks reflect broader concerns in Washington about maintaining influence in the region.

While Trump did not specify what actions the US might take, his language suggested a willingness to assert American interests more forcefully. Observers noted that his comments stopped short of outlining military steps, but the phrasing raised questions about sovereignty, diplomacy and international law.

Denmark and Greenland Push Back

Officials in Denmark responded swiftly, emphasising that Greenland is not for sale and that any decisions about its future rest with its people. Denmark’s foreign ministry reiterated that cooperation with the United States in the Arctic has always been based on mutual respect and alliance commitments through NATO.

Greenlandic leaders were more pointed in their response. The territory’s prime minister stated that Greenland “belongs to the Greenlandic people” and warned against rhetoric that undermines self-determination. “We welcome cooperation, not coercion,” the statement said, underscoring longstanding sensitivities about external powers treating Greenland as a strategic asset rather than a society with its own political aspirations.

Public sentiment in Greenland has increasingly favoured greater autonomy and eventual independence from Denmark, making any suggestion of foreign control particularly contentious.

Political Calculations in the US

Trump’s comments come as he continues to shape foreign policy debates ahead of the US presidential election. Analysts say the remarks are consistent with his “America First” approach, which prioritises strategic advantage and economic interests over diplomatic convention.

Supporters argue that Trump is highlighting legitimate security concerns, particularly given Russia’s expanding military presence in the Arctic and China’s growing interest in polar research and infrastructure investment. Critics, however, warn that such blunt language risks alienating allies and destabilising a region that has historically been managed through cooperation.

Current US officials have sought to distance themselves from Trump’s remarks. A senior administration source said that US policy toward Greenland remains rooted in partnership with Denmark and respect for Greenlandic autonomy, adding that no unilateral action is being considered.

International and NATO Reactions

Across Europe, Trump’s comments were met with caution. Several NATO diplomats privately expressed concern that the rhetoric could complicate alliance unity at a time when cooperation is critical, particularly given heightened tensions with Russia.

NATO has increased its focus on the Arctic in recent years, with member states conducting joint exercises and expanding surveillance capabilities. The alliance has repeatedly stressed that security in the High North should be managed collectively, avoiding unilateral moves that could provoke escalation.

Russia, which has significantly expanded its Arctic military infrastructure, has not formally responded to Trump’s comments. However, analysts suggest Moscow could use the remarks to justify its own actions in the region, framing them as defensive responses to Western assertiveness.

Historical Context and Lingering Sensitivities

The idea of US control over Greenland is not new. The United States previously explored purchasing the territory after World War II, and its strategic importance has long been recognised. During the Cold War, Greenland played a central role in early-warning systems against Soviet missiles.

However, modern international norms emphasise sovereignty and self-determination, making Trump’s language particularly sensitive. For many in Greenland, such statements echo a colonial mindset that disregards local voices.

“It’s not just about security,” said one Arctic policy expert. “It’s about identity, autonomy and respect. That’s why the reaction has been so strong.”

What Happens Next?

Despite the controversy, analysts believe Trump’s remarks are unlikely to translate into immediate policy shifts unless he returns to office. Nevertheless, the comments have reignited debate over Arctic governance and the balance between strategic competition and cooperation.

For Denmark and Greenland, the episode underscores the need to reaffirm sovereignty while managing vital security partnerships. For the United States, it highlights the challenge of asserting strategic interests without undermining alliances.

As climate change continues to reshape the Arctic, interest in the region is only expected to grow. Whether future engagement is defined by cooperation or confrontation may depend as much on political rhetoric as on concrete policy decisions.

For now, Trump’s words have once again placed Greenland at the centre of global attention — a reminder that even remote regions can become flashpoints in an increasingly contested world.

Published: 11 January 2026.

The English Chronicle Desk.

The English Chronicle Online.