Russia watches US-European tensions over Greenland with some glee, gloating and wariness

At the World Economic Forum in Davos on Wednesday, US President Donald Trump stated the US would not use military force to acquire Greenland. This announcement comes after his administration expressed interest in taking the self-governing territory for security purposes. Trump acknowledged the US could likely take Greenland by force, but stated he would not pursue that option. The remarks were made during a speech where he also discussed economic achievements and challenges in international relations. The speech and surrounding events were covered live by SCMP.

In January 2026, US President Trump stated he would not use force to acquire Greenland. Speaking at the World Economic Forum, Trump indicated he planned to hold "many meetings" regarding Greenland. The statement comes amidst simmering tensions in Europe. The US had previously expressed interest in purchasing the territory, which is part of the Kingdom of Denmark. The reason for Trump's renewed interest and planned meetings was not specified in the report.

Russia is observing tensions between the United States and Europe regarding Greenland with a mix of satisfaction, gloating, and caution. These tensions arose in January 2026, stemming from disagreements over US policy towards the territory. Protests against the US policy occurred in Nuuk, Greenland. The situation is viewed by Russia with some pleasure as it highlights potential divisions within NATO and the Western alliance. However, Russia also maintains a degree of wariness, likely due to the strategic implications of Greenland's location and the potential for increased military activity in the Arctic region.

Greenland's Prime Minister, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, has advised the island's population to prepare for a possible, though unlikely, military invasion, citing continued threats from former US President Donald Trump regarding a takeover. Speaking at a press conference in Nuuk on Tuesday, Nielsen announced the formation of a task force to help residents prepare for potential disruptions to daily life. The government is also distributing guidelines recommending residents store a five-day supply of food. Trump has publicly stated his desire to own Greenland for security reasons, even posting an AI-generated image of himself planting a US flag on the island. While Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark, it maintains its own government, though Denmark handles defense and foreign policy and has recently increased its troop presence there.

China has confirmed receiving an invitation from U.S. President Trump to join a "peace board" initiative aimed at resolving the conflict in Gaza. The invitation is part of Trump's broader effort to advance his 20-point plan for the region. While China acknowledged the invitation through foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun, it has not yet indicated whether it will accept. The proposed board was initially intended to oversee the rebuilding of Gaza, but its role may expand to address other conflicts. Other invitees include Russia and Israel, with the Kremlin stating it is reviewing the proposal's details.

Donald Trump confirmed he invited Vladimir Putin to join his newly formed Board of Peace, which will oversee the next phase of the Gaza peace plan. The Kremlin acknowledged receiving the invitation and stated they are reviewing the details. France also received an invitation but indicated they are unlikely to join at this stage, citing concerns about UN principles. Trump responded to France's reluctance by suggesting tariffs on French wines and champagnes. Other countries invited include Israel, Canada, Belarus, Slovenia, and Thailand, while Morocco, Vietnam, Kazakhstan, Hungary, and Argentina have already accepted.

Russia is observing the fallout from Donald Trump's interest in acquiring Greenland, viewing it as a potential weakening of transatlantic relations. While the Kremlin sees an opportunity to exploit divisions between the US and Europe, it also recognizes potential security risks for its own Arctic ambitions. Russian officials have publicly commented on the situation, with some praising Trump's potential historical impact and others highlighting Europe's challenges. Despite the opportunity to benefit from strained US-European relations, Russia remains cautious, aiming to maintain a working relationship with the US, particularly regarding the conflict in Ukraine. The situation is unfolding as Russia seeks to solidify its presence and influence in the Arctic region.