Former US President Donald Trump has once again asserted his controversial ambition to acquire Greenland, stating the US would take the territory "one way or the other." The remarks, made overnight to reporters aboard Air Force One, have triggered a stark warning from Denmark about the future of the NATO alliance.
Trump's Dismissive Comments on Greenland and Defence
Speaking on Monday, 12 January 2026, Trump repeated his long-standing interest in Greenland, suggesting he was open to a deal but insisting on ultimate acquisition. "If we don't take Greenland, Russia or China will, and I'm not letting that happen," he claimed, despite a notable absence of any public claim or obvious strategic move from either Moscow or Beijing towards the autonomous Danish territory.
In a characteristically dismissive tone, Trump mocked Greenland's defensive capabilities, reducing them to "two dog sleds" facing down advanced Russian and Chinese military assets. He presented the potential takeover as a pre-emptive strategic necessity.
NATO Implications and Danish 'Fateful Moment'
When questioned about the impact such an aggressive move against a NATO ally might have on the transatlantic alliance, Trump was bluntly indifferent. "If it affects Nato, it affects Nato. But you know, they need us much more than we need them," he stated.
He further argued that he had "saved" NATO by pressuring members to increase defence spending and claimed he was working to end the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
These comments prompted a grave response from Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. She described the situation as a "fateful moment" for Denmark and the Western alliance. "What is at stake is bigger than what the eye can see," Frederiksen warned, suggesting that an American threat against an ally could fundamentally undermine NATO cooperation.
Diplomatic Context and Next Steps
The diplomatic row unfolds ahead of a scheduled meeting on Wednesday between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and ministers from Denmark and Greenland. The encounter is now set against a backdrop of heightened tension and existential questions about alliance solidarity.
The episode highlights ongoing geopolitical uncertainties and the potential for significant strain within NATO should such rhetoric translate into policy. All eyes will be on the upcoming diplomatic talks for signs of de-escalation or further confrontation.
