Trump Has an Offramp on Greenland. He Doesn’t Seem to Want It.

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 7 min read 100% complete by David E. SangerJanuary 19, 2026 at 11:02 AM

AI Summary

long article 7 min

A struggle for control of Greenland is intensifying, highlighting NATO's historical underinvestment in Arctic security amid melting glaciers, increased Chinese and Russian naval activity, and critical undersea cables. President Trump, however, is reportedly uninterested in diplomatic compromises or defense partnerships to address this issue. Instead, he has opened a rift within NATO by demanding ownership and threatening tariffs, despite European offers of solutions short of relinquishing control. This has led to warnings of a "dangerous downward spiral" and accusations of blackmail. Trump's stance contrasts with potential solutions that could achieve his stated defense aims, such as expanding U.S. bases and missile defense projects in the region.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Alaska 40% Denmark 40% Texas 40% Alexander Stubb 50% Finland 50% David E. Sanger ×260% Europe ×260% China ×260% Russia ×360% North Atlantic Treaty Organization ×280% Greenland ×485% Donald Trump ×690%

Keywords

greenland 100% arctic security 80% nato 80% trump 70% superpower conflict 60% european allies 50% diplomatic compromise 50% tariffs 40% defense partnerships 40%