Trump calls Greenland 'very important,' says Denmark can't protect it, plans Davos talks
President Donald Trump reiterated his push for US control of Greenland, arguing Denmark is unable to protect the territory and signaling the issue will be raised at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
President Donald Trump stated on Monday that Greenland is “very important” and insisted Denmark is incapable of protecting the autonomous Arctic territory, suggesting the matter will be discussed with world leaders at the World Economic Forum in Davos. “Look, we have to have it. They have to have this done. They can't protect it,” Trump told reporters, while praising Denmark as a nation with “wonderful people” but adding its leaders “don’t even go there.”
Security Concerns and NATO Warnings
Trump pointed to longstanding NATO warnings to Denmark about regional threats, citing Russia and China as strategic challengers in the Arctic. “NATO has been warning Denmark for about 20 years now — longer than that, 25 years,” he claimed. The president has repeatedly framed Greenland’s acquisition as a national security imperative, using the rationale to threaten tariffs on European allies who oppose US control and to justify increased military interest in the region.
Upcoming Diplomacy at Davos
Trump indicated that Greenland will be a topic of conversation in Davos, where he and other leaders have gathered for the annual forum. “We’ll be talking about it with the various people,” he said, adding, “it’s going to be a very interesting Davos.” The comments signal that the US will continue to press the issue multilaterally, despite firm rejections from both Denmark and Greenland’s government regarding any transfer of sovereignty.
Broader Implications for Transatlantic Relations
The persistent focus on Greenland highlights the Trump administration’s willingness to challenge alliance norms and leverage economic pressure to pursue territorial objectives. European capitals have largely united behind Copenhagen, framing Trump’s stance as a breach of sovereignty and alliance trust. How the topic is addressed in Davos—and whether it further strains US-European dialogue—will be closely watched as both sides navigate deepening divisions over security, trade, and Arctic policy.
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