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

The article discusses the possibility of the U.S., under Donald Trump, attempting to acquire Greenland, with the White House considering all options, including military force. Trump claims Greenland is vital to U.S. national security, alleging Russian and Chinese presence without evidence. While Greenland lacks its own military, Denmark is responsible for its defense, though with limited resources across the vast territory. Experts suggest a U.S. military operation could be executed relatively easily, potentially utilizing the existing Pituffik facility as a logistical base and the Alaska-based 11th Airborne Division. However, such action would severely damage the NATO alliance, as it would constitute an attack by one member on another. Denmark has increased defense spending in the Arctic region, including Greenland, in the past year.

In January 2026, President Trump expressed interest in the U.S. acquiring Greenland, suggesting both purchase and potential takeover. However, a 1951 Cold War agreement between the U.S. and Denmark already grants the U.S. broad military access to Greenland, including the ability to establish bases and control movement of personnel and equipment. Analysts suggest this agreement allows the U.S. to achieve its national security goals in Greenland without needing to buy it. Greenlanders now have the right to hold a referendum on independence and Danish officials have said it’s up to the island’s 57,000 inhabitants to decide their future.

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.

France is consulting with allies, including Germany and Poland, regarding a potential response to a possible US invasion of Greenland. This follows escalating tensions fueled by former President Trump's expressed interest in acquiring the Arctic territory and suggestions from his aides about using military force. Denmark, which governs Greenland, has warned that a US invasion would jeopardize NATO and post-World War II security. While European leaders have affirmed Greenland's right to self-determination, the Trump administration has stated that "a range of options" are being considered. The Danish and Greenlandic foreign ministers are seeking urgent talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to de-escalate the situation, after Rubio reportedly ruled out an invasion.