Tensions over Greenland are rising again as U.S. President Donald Trump adopts a sharper tone toward Denmark and Europe. Despite a poll showing that 85% of Greenlanders oppose joining the United States, Trump has renewed pressure over control of the Arctic territory, framing it as a security issue linked to Russia.
In a Truth Social post, Trump accused Denmark of failing to act, writing: “Unfortunately, Denmark has been unable to do anything about it. Now it is time, and it will be done!!!” He claimed NATO has pushed Denmark for years to address threats in Greenland and hinted the U.S. could act on its own.
The warning followed Trump’s announcement of a 10% tariff on goods from several European countries, set to begin February 1. He said the tariffs would stay “until Greenland becomes American.” European leaders reacted strongly, with EU officials warning the move would “undermine transatlantic relations” and pledging to defend against “any form of coercion.”
In Greenland, protests quickly followed. About 1,000 residents marched in Nuuk to oppose Trump’s remarks and reaffirm sovereignty. Local leaders stressed that Greenland’s future is for its people alone to decide. Denmark and allies attempted to calm tensions, stating deployed troops pose “no threat to anyone.”
Criticism also came from within the U.S. Congressman Michael McCaul warned that military action would be disastrous, saying it would “put us at war with NATO itself” and “abolish NATO as we know it.” The dispute has become a major test for alliances, sovereignty, and transatlantic cooperation.
