Trump Renews Push to Bring Greenland Under US Control at WEF; Targets Europe, Calls for Immediate Negotiation

Davos: US President Donald Trump used a high-profile address at the World Economic Forum on Wednesday to renew his push to bring Greenland — an autonomous territory of Denmark — under American control, intensifying diplomatic friction with European allies. While he publicly ruled out the use of military force, his remarks underscored persistent pressure for negotiations and sparked strong reactions from leaders gathered in Davos.

In a speech to global policymakers and business figures, Trump reiterated that the United States is uniquely positioned to “secure” Greenland and argued for “immediate negotiations” on its future. He stressed that Washington did not intend to deploy troops to take the island but framed the issue as vital to US strategic interests, citing the Arctic’s geopolitical importance. Trump also chided NATO allies and questioned their contributions to collective defence, suggesting Europe should be more accommodating to American aims on the issue.

Despite ruling out a military takeover — saying “I don’t want to use force, I won’t use force” — Trump’s rhetoric about Greenland has amplified unease among Europe’s capitals. Several nations have made clear that sovereignty over the island, which has its own government and is governed under Danish constitutional arrangements, is not negotiable and must be respected under international law. Denmark’s leadership has repeatedly stated that changes in governance would require consent from Greenland’s people.

Trump’s comments also touched on tariff threats against European countries that have opposed his stance on Greenland — a strategy that has already triggered broader pushback from the European Union and NATO members worried it could undermine long-standing alliances and economic cooperation.

Leaders at Davos viewed the Greenland remarks — which overshadowed parts of his planned economic remarks — as emblematic of rising tensions between Washington and key partners. The dispute has prompted calls in some capitals for stronger collective defence mechanisms and a reassessment of transatlantic relations, even as forum delegates continue to engage on other global issues.

Trump’s focus on Greenland at the forum highlights how the remote Arctic territory has become a flashpoint in US.–Europe relations, blending security, economics and diplomatic trust into one of the most contentious topics at this year’s World Economic Forum.