U.S. President Donald Trump reaffirmed his intent to acquire Greenland during remarks on January 11, 2026, declaring the U.S. would secure the Danish territory "one way or the other." Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump dismissed leasing arrangements and emphasized permanent acquisition, citing national security concerns about alleged Russian and Chinese naval activity near the island.
"We're talking about acquiring, not leasing," Trump stated, claiming ownership is essential despite Nordic diplomats contradicting his assertions about foreign military presence. Two senior NATO-linked diplomats told the Financial Times there is "no evidence" of recent Russian or Chinese submarine operations near Greenland, with Norway's foreign minister similarly downplaying such activity.
The remarks have reignited concerns about U.S.-Denmark relations and NATO cohesion. Trump questioned whether NATO allies would support the U.S. in a crisis, asserting, "They need us much more than we need them." Analysts suggest the comments could complicate ongoing Arctic security dialogues ahead of the 2026 APEC Leaders’ Meeting.
Greenland’s strategic location and mineral resources have drawn global interest, though Denmark maintains the island is not for sale. The dispute highlights growing geopolitical competition in the Arctic, a region increasingly critical for shipping routes and resource extraction.
