Trump's Greenland Acquisition Talks Stir Controversy Amidst International Concerns

Fri Jan 09 2026 10:33:35 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The White House confirms that President Trump is considering a potential purchase of Greenland, despite Denmark's insistence the territory is not for sale. This move raises questions about U.S. foreign policy and NATO's unity.

President Donald Trump is reportedly in discussions regarding the acquisition of Greenland, which has been met with firm opposition from Denmark and concerns from European allies. The White House insists that all options, including military force, remain on the table as discussions progress. Greenland's strategic location and resources have heightened U.S. interest, but international leaders are emphasizing sovereignty and the principles of the UN Charter amid escalating tensions.

US President Donald Trump and his officials are actively discussing a potential offer to buy the Danish territory of Greenland, the White House has confirmed.

It is something that's currently being actively discussed by the president and his national security team, White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Wednesday.

Both Greenland and Denmark have repeatedly stressed the island was not for sale.

Asked why the Trump administration had previously said it was not ruling out using military force to acquire Greenland, Leavitt replied that all options were always on the table but Trump's first option always has been diplomacy.

Concerns over the future of the territory resurfaced after Trump's unilateral use of military force against Venezuela on Saturday to seize its President Nicolás Maduro. Denmark, a fellow NATO ally, says an attack on its territory would end the military alliance.

The Trump administration says Greenland is vital to US security. Despite being the most sparsely populated territory, its location between North America and the Arctic makes it strategically important for early warning systems and monitoring vessels.

In recent years, there has also been increased interest in Greenland's natural resources, including rare earth minerals, uranium, and potential oil and gas reserves.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has indicated he will hold talks with Denmark next week.

Trump previously made an offer to buy the island in 2019, which was declined by Denmark, emphasizing that acquisition of Greenland was not a new idea.

The White House said Trump is advancing discussions about what a possible purchase might look like. All options are always on the table for President Trump as he examines what's in the best interests of the United States, Leavitt stated.

European leaders have rallied behind Denmark, asserting that only the people of Greenland and Denmark can decide their futures.

Aaja Chemnitz, a local MP, described the comments from the Trump administration as a disrespectful threat but suggested they may simply seek to exert pressure over time.

For many Greenlanders, there is a feeling of indifference towards the U.S. acquisition of their territory, leading to a broader discussion about sovereignty, resources, and the future implications of global warming on their land.