DAVOS, Switzerland — Donald Trump on Wednesday used his appearance at the World Economic Forum to restate his long-standing interest in Greenland, saying the United States would pursue the issue through dialogue and would not use military force, while also insisting that the move would not pose a threat to the NATO alliance.
Speaking to global political and business leaders in Davos, Trump described Greenland as strategically important in the Arctic at a time of growing competition among major powers. He said Washington believed deeper U.S. involvement would enhance regional security but stressed that any outcome must come through negotiations.
“I am not talking about force,” Trump said. “There will be no use of force, and there is no intention to threaten our allies.”
Trump also sought to address concerns within the transatlantic alliance, saying the United States remained committed to North Atlantic Treaty Organization and that discussions around Greenland should not be interpreted as hostile toward Europe. He argued that the issue was being framed as a security matter rather than a territorial dispute.
Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark and hosts critical Arctic infrastructure, including U.S. military facilities. Danish authorities have repeatedly stated that Greenland is not for sale and that decisions about its future rest with its people.
European leaders attending the forum responded cautiously but firmly. Denmark’s prime minister reiterated that Greenland’s status is not open to negotiation and emphasized respect for sovereignty and international law.
Other allied leaders echoed that position. The prime minister of Canada said Arctic stability depends on cooperation among partners and warned against actions that could create uncertainty in the region. Britain’s prime minister said alliances are built on trust and consultation, adding that pressure tactics have no place among close partners. Leaders from several European Union states said the issue underscored the need for unity within NATO as global security challenges intensify.
Greenland’s leadership has also rejected external claims over the territory, saying its future will be decided by Greenlanders alone. Officials in Nuuk have emphasized economic development, climate concerns and greater self-governance as their priorities.
Trump’s comments revived a debate that first surfaced during his earlier presidency, again placing Arctic geopolitics at the center of discussions in Davos. While he sought to reassure allies by ruling out force, the remarks highlighted differing views among Western leaders on how security, sovereignty and alliance politics should be balanced in the rapidly changing Arctic region.
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