U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday called for immediate negotiations over Greenland, while insisting he would not use military force to take the Arctic territory from Denmark, despite describing America’s power as “unstoppable.”
Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Trump said his interest in acquiring Greenland was driven by both national and global security concerns. The issue dominated his first Davos appearance in six years.
According to Trump, only the United States is capable of safeguarding Greenland’s vast territory. He urged Denmark to enter talks on a possible acquisition, warning that Copenhagen had a choice: agree and be appreciated, or refuse and face consequences. He linked the issue to NATO’s strength, arguing that a secure America underpins a secure alliance.
Although he criticized Denmark as “ungrateful,” Trump ruled out military action against the NATO ally, saying he did not want to use force and would not do so, despite acknowledging that the U.S. could prevail if it chose that route.
Trump also attacked Europe more broadly, criticizing its economic direction, trade policies, and stance on tariffs. His comments and claims over mineral-rich Greenland overshadowed discussions at Davos, even as protests against him appeared in the snow around the resort.
His arrival was delayed after a technical issue forced Air Force One to return to Washington and change aircraft. Despite this, opposition to his rhetoric was evident, with slogans such as “No Kings” displayed near the venue.
European leaders and Canada have pushed back strongly against Trump’s territorial ambitions. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney warned of a potential breakdown in the U.S.-led global order, while NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte called for careful diplomacy to manage rising tensions within the alliance.
Rutte also rejected Trump’s claim that NATO might not defend the United States, insisting that alliance members would come to Washington’s aid if needed.
Trump, however, repeated his criticism of NATO, saying the U.S. was treated unfairly. France responded by proposing a NATO military exercise in Greenland and signaled readiness to participate. President Emmanuel Macron also condemned Trump’s tariff threats and warned against attempts to dominate Europe.
The European Union has threatened retaliatory measures after Trump proposed tariffs of up to 25 percent on several European countries supporting Denmark. Meanwhile, Greenland’s prime minister cautioned that the island’s small population must be prepared for the possibility of military pressure.
Trump is also expected to announce the launch of his proposed “Board of Peace,” an international conflict-resolution body with a reported $1 billion fee for permanent membership.
