US President Donald Trump has reaffirmed his controversial interest in Greenland, calling the territory “imperative” and saying there is “no going back.”
Ahead of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Trump’s remarks have sparked criticism from European leaders and Greenland officials alike.
During a White House press conference, Trump doubled down on his earlier statements about Greenland, hinting that he is willing to pursue all options. “You'll find out,” he said when asked how far he would go to acquire the Arctic territory.
The president also told reporters that Greenland would be “pretty well” handled, and emphasized that his focus on the region was tied to global security. Trump questioned NATO’s commitment to defending the US while insisting the alliance and America would “be happy” if Greenland were acquired.
European leaders push back
European officials quickly countered Trump’s statements. French President Emmanuel Macron warned of a “shift towards a world without rules,” while Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized that the “old order is not coming back” and reaffirmed Canada’s support for Greenland’s sovereignty.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stressed that Europe is “fully committed” to Arctic security and called Trump’s proposed tariffs a “mistake.” She underscored that Greenland and Denmark’s sovereignty is “non-negotiable.”
Macron echoed these sentiments, stating that “respect is preferable to bullies” and that “the rule of law outweighs brutality.”
Greenland responds
Greenland’s Minister of Industry and Natural Resources, Naaja Nathanielsen, described Trump’s proposals as bewildering. “We do not want to be Americans, and we have been quite clear about that,” she said, emphasizing the importance of Greenlandic culture and self-determination.
Trump has suggested adding a 10% tariff on goods imported from eight European countries if they oppose his Greenland plans, while also threatening a 200% tariff on French wine and champagne after Macron reportedly declined an invitation to join the Gaza “Board of Peace.”
Trump shared screenshots of text messages from Macron and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, indicating some level of dialogue on Greenland. However, tensions remain high, with the European Union exploring retaliatory measures, including the anti-coercion instrument, and potentially suspending approval of a US trade deal reached in July.
