Trump vows to remove 'Russian threat' from Greenland, criticizes Denmark
US President Donald Trump pledged to take action against what he called the “Russian threat” in Greenland, accusing Denmark of failing to address security concerns in the Arctic territory over two decades.
US President Donald Trump declared on Monday that Washington will move decisively to eliminate the “Russian threat” from Greenland, asserting that NATO has urged Denmark for 20 years to address security risks in the Arctic territory without results. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, “Now it is time, and it will be done!!!” The announcement follows a phone call on Sunday between Trump and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, during which they discussed Greenland and Arctic security.
Link to Trade Tariffs on European Allies
The remarks align with Trump’s broader pressure campaign targeting European allies over Greenland. On Saturday, he announced 10% tariffs on goods from eight European nations—Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Finland—effective February 1, rising to 25% in June, citing their opposition to US control of Greenland. In response, the eight countries issued a joint statement on Sunday condemning the tariff threat and reaffirming their commitment to Arctic stability.
Kremlin’s Recognition of Danish Sovereignty
Amid rising tensions, the Kremlin explicitly acknowledged Greenland as part of the Kingdom of Denmark last week. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov described the situation on the island as “very controversial” but clarified, “We proceed from the understanding that Greenland is a territory of the Kingdom of Denmark.” The statement appears aimed at distancing Moscow from US allegations of a Russian threat while underscoring respect for existing sovereignty arrangements.
Strategic Stakes in the Arctic
Greenland’s strategic location and resource wealth have made it a focal point in renewed great-power competition. Trump’s latest comments signal an intent to unilaterally redefine security dynamics in the region, potentially outside NATO consensus, and further strain transatlantic relations. The situation highlights how Arctic security is increasingly entangled with trade policy and geopolitical posturing, challenging traditional alliance diplomacy.
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