Donald Trump explicitly rejected using military force to seize Greenland during his Davos address, yet maintained an aggressive posture toward Denmark and other European nations regarding the Arctic territory. The American president’s speech combined reassurances about peaceful intentions with ominous warnings about remembering which countries cooperate with his administration’s demands, illustrating his preference for economic coercion over military action.
Speaking before thousands at the World Economic Forum, Trump characterized his Greenland ambitions as reasonable and necessary for defending what he termed an “unsecured island.” He argued that Denmark, which he mocked for being overrun by Germany in World War II “after just six hours of fighting,” lacks the capability to adequately protect Greenland in the current geopolitical environment. According to Trump, only American ownership can provide the security required given Greenland’s strategic Arctic location.
European officials welcomed Trump’s commitment to avoid military action while remaining deeply concerned about his underlying objectives. Lars Løkke Rasmussen, Denmark’s foreign minister, noted that while ruling out force is “positive,” it doesn’t eliminate the challenge posed by America’s territorial demands. Former NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg similarly acknowledged relief that Trump had addressed widespread fears about potential invasion, though fundamental disagreements over Greenland’s status remain unresolved.
The president’s subsequent announcement about delaying tariffs on eight European countries appeared designed to demonstrate progress without requiring immediate concessions from Denmark or Greenland. Trump claimed discussions with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte had produced a framework for future arrangements, including missile defense infrastructure. However, the vagueness of this supposed agreement, combined with Rutte’s refusal to discuss it publicly, suggested Trump may be overstating diplomatic achievements to justify his tactical retreat on tariffs.
Throughout his appearance, Trump criticized European allies on multiple fronts beyond Greenland, questioning their commitment to mutual defense, attacking their energy and immigration policies, and demanding greater defense spending. He also praised relationships with Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping while insulting figures like Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. The combative tone and rambling nature of the speech prompted criticism from Democratic officials and raised concerns among some Republicans about the president’s diplomatic approach.