At Davos 2026, Donald Trump renewed his push for U.S. acquisition of Greenland, calling for peaceful negotiations and warning allies of economic consequences if they oppose.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump reignited global controversy during his address at the World Economic Forum 2026 in Davos by reiterating his ambition for the United States to acquire Greenland, calling it a “vital strategic asset” while affirming that “force is not going to be used.”
Speaking on 21 January to world leaders and business elites, Trump stressed that Greenland’s acquisition was necessary for national security and Arctic stability, positioning it as a NATO priority. He proposed “immediate negotiations” with Denmark and Greenland’s leadership, describing the island as critical to “protecting the free world.” While he confirmed that military action is off the table, he issued a warning: allies who resist the idea could face economic retaliation from Washington.
“We want Greenland — right, title and ownership,” Trump declared. “But we’re going to do it peacefully, not with force.”
The remarks quickly became the most discussed moment at Davos, shifting the summit’s focus from economic issues to territorial tensions. European leaders responded with concern, citing Greenland’s self-governance and reaffirming their commitment to respecting its sovereignty. Denmark, which retains control over Greenland’s foreign policy, rejected the proposal, and additional military personnel have reportedly been deployed to reinforce Greenland’s defence.
The renewed interest in Greenland follows Trump’s earlier statements and tariff threats in late 2025, which strained relations with several NATO allies. While Trump couched his latest pitch in diplomatic language, analysts fear the move could deepen rifts within transatlantic alliances and destabilise Arctic cooperation.
Greenland’s government also reiterated its stance, calling any transfer of sovereignty “non-negotiable.”
