> At a Glance
> – The White House declared acquiring Greenland a “national security priority” on Tuesday
> – U.S. military force is among options under consideration
> – European allies vowed to defend Greenland’s sovereignty
> Why it matters: The stance escalates tensions with NATO partners and signals potential military action against Denmark
President Trump’s administration elevated its push to claim Greenland, with the White House confirming military options are on the table and drawing immediate backlash from key European allies.
Military Option on the Table
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that President Trump has made Greenland acquisition a national security goal. She noted the territory’s importance for deterring Arctic adversaries.
When asked about military action, Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller told CNN:
> “It wouldn’t be military action against Greenland. The real question is, what right does Denmark assert control over Greenland?”
The White House team is weighing several approaches:
- Purchasing Greenland from Denmark
- Creating a compact of free association
- Deploying U.S. military assets
Allied Opposition Solidifies
France, Germany, Britain, Italy, Poland, Spain and Denmark issued a joint statement defending Greenland’s territorial integrity. They emphasized that Greenland belongs to its people and only Denmark and Greenland can decide their future.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned:
> “If the United States chooses to attack another NATO country militarily, then everything stops.”
The allies stressed that Denmark and Greenland are NATO members, requiring collective security coordination under the UN Charter.
Historical Context
The U.S. has maintained a military base in Greenland for decades. In 1916, America agreed not to object to Danish control over Greenland in exchange for purchasing the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Trump has pursued the territory for months, citing strategic importance and mineral resources. He told NBC News he was “very serious” about the acquisition and claimed the EU needs the U.S. to control it.
Key Takeaways
- The White House officially labels Greenland a national security priority
- Military force is explicitly under consideration
- Seven European allies jointly defend Greenland’s sovereignty
- Denmark warns military action would end NATO cooperation
- The U.S. already has similar free association agreements with three Pacific nations
The administration’s stance marks a dramatic shift in Arctic policy and risks fracturing NATO unity at a critical moment for European security.
