US President Donald Trump has said that Denmark cannot properly defend its semi-autonomous territory 'Greenland', and therefore, discussions will be held with international leaders on the matter during the World Economic Forum in Davos.
On Tuesday, in a conversation with journalists, Trump replied to a question about the possible reaction of European leaders attending the Davos meeting, saying "I don't think they will oppose it. We have to get Greenland. They can't defend it; the people of Denmark are great people."
While praising Denmark and its leadership, Trump said, "I know the leaders of Denmark are great people, but they don't even go there themselves."
Trump stated that there will be discussions about Greenland with participating leaders at the World Economic Forum starting on Tuesday. "We will talk to various people about it," Trump said, without specifying which leaders he plans to discuss the Greenland issue with; however, he emphasized that "Greenland is very important."
He pointed to long-term security concerns and said, "NATO has been warning Denmark about potential dangers in the region for 25 years. Russia is a threat in the area, and China is also a strategic challenge in the Arctic region. So, we will see what happens. But I will say that this Davos is going to be very interesting."
Later, Trump posted a picture on Truth Social, showing him holding the American flag with Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, which hints at the possibility of Greenland becoming a part of the US at any time during 2026.
In a brief phone conversation with NBC News regarding the use of force during the occupation of Greenland, Trump replied, "I won't comment on that." Earlier, Trump had said that he had a very effective phone call with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte regarding Greenland.
In a statement released on Truth Social, Trump said, "I have agreed to meet with various parties during the Davos meeting in Switzerland. As I have made very clear to everyone, Greenland is essential for national and global security. There is no going back on this matter; everyone agrees."
It is clear that Trump believes the US must acquire Greenland to ensure its national security and prevent the involvement of its rivals in the Arctic. He has threatened European allies who oppose the US occupation of Greenland with tariffs and has also sent a small number of troops to the area. However, both Denmark and Greenland have rejected any proposal to sell the territory.