Highlights:
-
Trump shared an image labeling Greenland as a U.S. territory “established in 2026.”
-
Trump said Greenland is essential to U.S. and global security.
-
Accused European nations and NATO allies of ignoring long-standing threats.
-
He criticized Denmark’s ability to defend Greenland.
- Advertisement - -
Trump linked the issue to his frustration over not receiving the Nobel Peace Prize.
President Donald Trump has once again brought Greenland into the global political spotlight, renewing his long-standing push to bring the autonomous Arctic island under U.S. control just days before the World Economic Forum 2026 in Davos, Switzerland. The renewed remarks, combined with a provocative social media post, have placed Trump’s Greenland position at the center of international debate at a time when global leaders are preparing to discuss security, geopolitics, and economic stability.
Trump shared an image on his Truth Social platform portraying Greenland as a “U.S. territory established in 2026.” The image showed Trump standing alongside Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, with Greenland clearly labeled as American territory. The post signaled that Trump views U.S. control of Greenland as a strategic necessity rather than a negotiable proposal, reinforcing a position he has expressed repeatedly in recent years.
Trump and Greenland at Davos 2026
Speaking to reporters ahead of the Davos summit, Trump framed Greenland as central to U.S. and global security interests. He argued that the Arctic region has become increasingly important due to its strategic location, emerging shipping routes, and growing interest from rival powers. According to Trump, European nations have failed to take these developments seriously for decades.
Reuters quoted Trump as saying that Europe had dismissed NATO concerns for nearly 20 years, allowing geopolitical rivals to expand their presence and influence near critical Arctic routes. Trump said this inaction had left Greenland exposed to external pressure from Russia and China, both of which he described as actively seeking influence in the region.
Trump’s comments were consistent with his broader criticism of NATO allies, whom he has frequently accused of failing to invest adequately in collective defense. In this case, Trump said that Greenland’s strategic importance made European inaction particularly concerning, given the island’s proximity to key Arctic and North Atlantic routes.
Trump Says U.S. Control of Greenland Is “Imperative”
Trump also disclosed that he recently spoke with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, describing the conversation as “good.” Following the call, Trump posted again on Truth Social, reinforcing his position. He wrote that U.S. control of Greenland was “imperative for National and World Security.” He added, “There can be no going back — on that, everyone agrees!”
Later, speaking in Florida, Trump repeated claims that Russia and China are expanding their influence in Greenland and the surrounding Arctic region. He said Denmark, which governs Greenland as an autonomous territory, does not have the military or defensive capacity to adequately protect the island. “We have to have it,” Trump told reporters, suggesting that U.S. involvement was unavoidable given the stakes involved.
Trump has previously argued that Greenland’s geographic position makes it critical to missile defense, early warning systems, and control of Arctic air and sea routes. His latest remarks reaffirmed that view, placing Greenland within a broader narrative of global security competition.
Trump Criticizes Denmark and Questions Greenland’s Status
In his renewed push, Trump again questioned Denmark’s historical claim to Greenland. In a letter sent to Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Trump argued that there was no definitive documentation proving Denmark’s ownership of the island. He suggested that historical landings by various nations weakened Denmark’s claim and supported his argument that U.S. acquisition would be justified.
Trump’s comments added another layer of controversy, as they challenge long-established international understandings regarding Greenland’s status as an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. Danish officials have consistently rejected any suggestion that Greenland is for sale or open to acquisition by another country.
Trump Links Greenland Push to Nobel Peace Prize Snub
Trump also connected his Greenland stance to his frustration over not receiving the Nobel Peace Prize in 2025. In his letter to the Norwegian prime minister, Trump wrote that he no longer felt obligated to prioritize peace after being “snubbed,” despite claiming credit for stopping multiple wars.
This remark drew attention to Trump’s broader worldview, in which he often links recognition, security policy, and personal legacy. While the Nobel reference was separate from the Greenland issue, it underscored the personal dimension Trump brings to foreign policy debates.
Trump’s Greenland Push Raises Global Questions
Trump’s renewed rhetoric has prompted international concern and debate, particularly over the legal, diplomatic, and security implications of such a move. As leaders prepare to gather in Davos, Greenland has emerged as an unexpected focal point in discussions about Arctic security, sovereignty, and great power competition.
While Trump has framed Greenland as vital to global security, critics continue to question whether his approach could strain relations with European allies and undermine existing international frameworks. With Davos 2026 approaching, Trump’s comments ensure that Greenland will feature prominently in conversations about the future balance of power in the Arctic and beyond.
