The inquiry regarding the reasons behind the United States’ interest in Greenland has transitioned from scholarly discussion to prominent political news, sparking renewed interest and debate in early January 2026. U.S. officials, including President Donald Trump, have openly addressed the significance of Greenland, even proposing alternatives that extend well beyond conventional diplomatic measures. This has elicited responses from Greenland, Denmark, NATO partners, and international observers.
The Trump administration has expressed on several occasions its intention to take possession of the Arctic island, emphasizing its relevance to US national security. “It is imperative to deter our adversaries in the Arctic region. The president and his team are evaluating a range of strategies to accomplish this vital foreign policy aim,” the White House remarked in a statement released on Wednesday.
What makes Greenland strategically significant?
Greenland, with a population of approximately 57,000, is located in one of the most crucial areas globally for trade and security. Recognized as the largest island in the world that is not classified as a continent, it is positioned between the Atlantic and Arctic oceans, with a vast ice sheet of 1.7 million square kilometers covering around 80 percent of its land.
According to Stuart Rollo from the University of Sydney, who specializes in the US-China relationship and imperial history, the importance of this region has increased partly due to the melting ice, which facilitates navigation through Arctic waters connecting Europe, Russia, and North America.
What makes Greenland significant to the United States?
In December, the United States unveiled its national security strategy, emphasizing the concept of hemispheric defense. Dr. Buchanan stated that Greenland is central to the US’s approach to “hemispheric defense.” “The Arctic serves as the ‘roof’ of the Western Hemisphere, while the Antarctic acts as the ‘floor,'” she explained.
The national security strategy alluded to a 200-year-old US foreign policy known as the Monroe Doctrine, which established the Western Hemisphere as the sphere of influence for the United States.
How have Denmark and other NATO allies reacted?
European leaders have addressed the recent statements from the White House regarding the acquisition of Greenland. A declaration was made that included leaders from France, Britain, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, and Denmark.
The leaders emphasised that security in the Arctic should be pursued collectively with NATO allies, including the United States. This came after strong remarks from Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, who asserted that any military aggression against a NATO member would result in “everything stopping”.
Dr Rollo noted that the US’s interest in controlling Greenland arises as it aims to lessen its commitments to Europe and, consequently, NATO.
Why are Denmark and Greenland cautious regarding Trump?
Concerns in Denmark and Greenland have escalated following the actions of US President Donald Trump in Venezuela, particularly the apprehension of President Nicolás Maduro.
This incident has amplified fears surrounding sovereignty and intervention, rendering Trump’s comments about Greenland even more concerning.
Alleged ‘Three-Phase’ Strategy
A report from the Danish Broadcasting Corporation (DR) suggested that the Trump administration was implementing a three-phase strategy to gain control over Greenland:
- A charm offensive, this included outreach efforts such as a visit from Donald Trump Jr.
- Direct pressure on Denmark involved JD Vance travelling to Greenland and openly criticising Denmark.
- Influence operations: alleged attempts to identify and nurture local supporters to incite a secessionist movement.
