Trump Reaffirms Greenland Ambitions Before Davos Trip, Insisting There’s ‘No Turning Back’

In a bold reiteration of his ambitions regarding Greenland, U.S. President Donald Trump declared there is “no turning back” on his intentions to assert control over the semi-autonomous Danish territory.

Responding to inquiries at a press briefing about the extent of his plans for acquiring Greenland, Trump cryptically stated, “You’ll find out.” This announcement follows remarks from French President Emmanuel Macron, who cautioned of a “shift towards a world without rules,” while Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney noted that the “old order is not returning.”

As Trump prepared for his arrival in Davos for the World Economic Forum, a minor electrical malfunction on Air Force One necessitated a return to base. The ramifications of this setback on his itinerary remain uncertain, although the White House confirmed that he would continue his journey to Switzerland aboard a different aircraft.

The President has indicated that numerous discussions are planned concerning Greenland. During a comprehensive press conference, he expressed optimism, stating, “Things are going to work out pretty well” in relation to the territory.

When asked by a reporter whether he would sacrifice NATO cohesion for the sake of Greenland, Trump asserted, “Nobody has done more for NATO than I have, in every way. NATO will be pleased, and so will we […] It is essential for global security.” Nevertheless, he previously cast doubt on NATO’s willingness to assist the U.S. if necessary.

“I know we would come to [NATO’s] rescue, but I genuinely question whether they would come to ours,” he told journalists. NATO currently comprises 32 member nations, with the U.S. among the original twelve founding states.

This alliance is designed to protect freedom and security through collective defense, as outlined in Article 5, which stipulates that an armed attack against one or more members will be treated as an attack against all.

Trump has not dismissed the possibility of utilizing military force to gain control of Greenland. When questioned by NBC News whether he would resort to such actions, he replied, “No comment.”

In an interview with a news program, Greenland’s Minister of Industry and Natural Resources, Naaja Nathanielsen, expressed that the people of Greenland are “bewildered” by Trump’s assertions. “We do not wish to become Americans, and we have made that very clear,” Nathanielsen stated. “What value do you place on our culture and our right to determine our future?”

As he readied for the World Economic Forum, Trump shared screenshots purportedly displaying text exchanges with Macron and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. In one message, Rutte expressed his commitment to finding a path forward regarding Greenland, while Macron conveyed confusion over Trump’s actions and offered to facilitate a meeting with other leaders in Paris.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen addressed the topic directly in her speech at the conference, asserting that Europe is “fully committed” to Arctic security. She emphasized that this objective can only be achieved collectively and criticized Trump’s tariff threats as “a mistake.”

The U.S. leader announced plans to impose a 10% tariff on “any and all goods” imported from eight European nations starting February 1 if they oppose his Greenland takeover proposal.

Von der Leyen further asserted that the European Union stands in “full solidarity” with Greenland and Denmark, stressing that their sovereignty is “non-negotiable.” Canadian Prime Minister Carney echoed her sentiments, reaffirming his country’s steadfast commitment to NATO’s Article 5, stating, “We stand firmly with Greenland and Denmark and fully support their unique right to determine Greenland’s future.”

During his speech at Davos, Macron articulated a preference for “respect over bullying” and championed the “rule of law over brutality.” Earlier, Trump threatened a 200% tariff on French wine and champagne after Macron reportedly turned down an invitation to participate in a U.S.-led initiative for Gaza.

Macron condemned the “endless accumulation of new tariffs” as “fundamentally unacceptable,” particularly when wielded as leverage against territorial sovereignty. He is among those urging the EU to explore retaliatory measures against U.S. tariffs, including an anti-coercion instrument colloquially known as a “trade bazooka.”

Sources connected to the international trade committee have indicated that the European Parliament may consider halting approval of the U.S. trade agreement established in July, signaling a potential escalation in tensions between the United States and Europe.