What are Trump’s real options for gaining control of Greenland?

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 5 min read 100% complete by Jon Henley and Miranda BryantJanuary 7, 2026 at 07:08 PM

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The Trump administration has repeatedly expressed interest in the U.S. gaining control of Greenland, a self-governing part of Denmark rich in minerals. While military action is considered unlikely, the U.S. has explored other options, including purchasing the island. The U.S. previously considered buying Greenland in the 19th and 20th centuries, even offering $100 million in 1946. However, both Danish and Greenlandic governments have stated Greenland is not for sale, and the island's self-rule law allows Greenlanders to decide their future through a referendum. Public opinion in Greenland is largely against becoming part of the U.S., but there is some openness to potential U.S. investment. The U.S. is currently pursuing a strategy of investing in Greenland's development and strengthening diplomatic ties.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Russia 30% Nuuk 30% Truman administration 40% US Virgin Islands 40% Marco Rubio ×250% Copenhagen ×360% Denmark ×570% United States ×780% Donald Trump ×390% Greenland ×10100%

Keywords

greenland 100% us acquisition 80% territorial ambitions 70% self-determination 60% us-denmark relations 60% foreign policy 50% trump administration 50% arctic 40%