Trump Escalates Greenland Threat, Says US Will Act if Deal Fails to Secure Arctic Territory

US President Donald Trump has intensified his long-standing push to acquire Greenland, warning that the United States is prepared to take decisive action if diplomatic efforts fail. Framing the issue as a matter of national and global security, Trump said Washington would prefer an amicable agreement but would not rule out tougher measures if its objectives are not met.

Speaking to reporters, Trump stated that while he would like to reach a deal through negotiations, alternatives remain firmly on the table. He added that the United States would “do something on Greenland” regardless of opposition, a remark that has raised alarm in both Greenland and Denmark. Attempting to strike a softer tone, Trump also praised Denmark, calling the country friendly and expressing personal admiration for its leadership.

Greenland, an autonomous territory governed under the Kingdom of Denmark, has repeatedly asserted that it is not for sale. Senior representatives from Greenland and Denmark recently held discussions with officials in Washington as concerns grow over the direction and intensity of US rhetoric surrounding the Arctic region.

When questioned about reports suggesting the US might offer direct payments to Greenlanders to gain public support for a potential takeover, Trump said financial incentives were not currently under discussion but did not dismiss the idea entirely. He reiterated that Washington’s interest in Greenland is strategic and non-negotiable.

Trump justified his position by highlighting geopolitical competition in the Arctic, arguing that failure to act would allow rival powers to expand their influence. He warned that Russia and China are increasing their presence in Arctic waters, including naval deployments near Greenland. According to Trump, allowing such developments would pose an unacceptable risk to US and allied security interests.

Dismissing Denmark’s historical claims over Greenland, Trump argued that past exploration does not equate to permanent ownership. He insisted that only full US ownership would ensure long-term defence and security of the territory, stating that military leases or basing agreements do not provide the same level of commitment or protection.

The US already maintains a military presence in Greenland, including strategic installations critical to missile defence and Arctic surveillance. However, Trump maintained that ownership, rather than partnership, is essential for effective defence. Drawing comparisons to past international agreements, he criticised time-bound deals as unreliable, asserting that sovereignty is the only guarantee of security.

Trump also attempted to balance his confrontational stance by emphasising that he maintains cordial relations with both Russia and China. He said he respects their leaders but made clear that their expansion into Greenland or its surrounding waters would not be tolerated.

The comments have triggered strong reactions in Europe. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has previously warned that any military action involving Greenland would have severe consequences for NATO unity and transatlantic relations. Danish officials have stressed that Greenland’s status is not open to negotiation and that any change would require the consent of its people.

As tensions rise, Trump’s renewed push has placed Greenland at the centre of a growing geopolitical contest in the Arctic, highlighting the region’s increasing strategic importance amid climate change, emerging shipping routes, and competition among global powers.