The day after US forces snatched Maduro from his home, Trump repeated that the US needs Greenland “from the standpoint of national security”. (Getty Images)
Explainers
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News1807-01-2026, 11:57

Trump's Greenland Bid Ignites Global Row: Denmark Warns NATO at Risk

  • President Trump revived his demand for the US to acquire Greenland, citing national security and Denmark's inability to protect its strategic Arctic position.
  • Denmark and Greenland strongly reject the US proposal, calling it disrespectful and a threat to sovereignty, with Denmark warning it could rupture NATO.
  • Greenland's strategic location between North America and Europe, its role in monitoring missile activity, and vast mineral wealth are key drivers for US interest.
  • The US has a long history of interest in Greenland, including a 1946 purchase offer by President Harry Truman and existing military bases like Pituffik Space Base.
  • European leaders, Canada, and the Netherlands support Denmark, emphasizing Greenland belongs to its people and decisions must be made by Denmark and Greenland.

Why It Matters: Trump's push for Greenland sparks international crisis, testing alliances and Arctic security.

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