Trump Rules Out Military Force in Greenland Bid

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that the United States would not use violence or military force to take control of Greenland, an autonomous territory under the sovereignty of the Kingdom of Denmark. The statement was delivered during his appearance at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Trump pushed back against speculation that his interest in Greenland would involve coercion, stressing that military action is neither necessary nor intended in pursuing the objective.

Despite rejecting the use of force, Trump reiterated his belief that Greenland is strategically vital to U.S. national security. He argued that the Arctic island holds significant geopolitical importance, particularly amid growing influence from Russia and China in the region. According to Trump, U.S. interest in Greenland goes beyond temporary arrangements, suggesting that any potential acquisition would aim for permanent legal integration rather than short-term control.

Trump also indicated that his administration would pursue direct negotiations with relevant parties to discuss the possibility of acquiring Greenland. He acknowledged that achieving such an outcome without force would be challenging, but maintained that diplomacy—not military pressure—would define the U.S. approach. Trump emphasized that while many assume power projection is the only path, he firmly rejects that method.

These remarks come amid heightened diplomatic resistance from both Denmark and Greenland. Officials from Copenhagen and Nuuk have consistently and unequivocally rejected the idea of a sale, stating that Greenland is not for sale and will remain part of the Danish realm. Greenlandic leaders have further stressed that the island’s future must be decided by its people, the majority of whom have expressed no desire to become part of the United States.

Opposition to Trump’s statements has also resonated across Europe and within international institutions. Danish authorities have dismissed any claim that the United States holds entitlement to Greenland, while several NATO allies have warned that such rhetoric risks undermining alliance cohesion and international legal norms. Public protests have taken place in Denmark and Greenland under slogans such as “Greenland Is Not for Sale,” reflecting widespread public resistance to external pressure.

In summary, while Donald Trump continues to assert that U.S. control over Greenland is strategically desirable, he has explicitly ruled out the use of military force to achieve that goal. Instead, he frames the effort as one rooted in negotiation and diplomacy—an approach that remains deeply controversial and firmly opposed by the governments and people most directly concerned.