In a statement that has reignited diplomatic tensions, former US President Donald Trump has once again asserted that the United States needs to acquire Greenland, specifically citing defense requirements. This declaration comes in the immediate aftermath of a large-scale US military intervention in Venezuela.
Trump's Defense Rationale and Danish Rejection
Speaking in a phone interview with The Atlantic on Sunday, January 4, 2026, Trump was unequivocal about US intentions. "We do need Greenland, absolutely," he stated. He directly linked this need to national security, adding, "We need it for defense." The autonomous Danish territory, located strategically in the Arctic, has been a repeated object of Trump's interest during his previous and current political tenure.
When questioned about how the recent US strike against Venezuela might influence perceptions regarding Greenland, Trump deferred, saying, "They are going to have to view it themselves. I really don't know. You know, I wasn't referring to Greenland at that time."
The response from Copenhagen was swift and firm. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen issued a direct statement on the same day, rejecting any notion of a US annexation. "I have to say it very directly to the United States," Frederiksen said, emphasizing that "the United States has no right to annex" any part of the Danish Realm, which includes Denmark, Greenland, and the Faroe Islands. She urged Washington to cease making threats against a close ally and the people of Greenland.
Context of Venezuela Raid and International Backlash
Trump's comments on Greenland follow his announcement on Saturday, January 3, regarding Venezuela. He declared that the United States would "run" Venezuela after a US military operation forcibly captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife.
This raid has sent shockwaves through the international community. Numerous nations have issued strong statements condemning what they label as a blatant use of force against a sovereign state and its elected leader. The Trump administration, however, has consistently pointed to a mix of national security concerns, Arctic competition, and the potential for accessing critical minerals as key drivers behind its persistent interest in controlling Greenland.
Ongoing Tensions and Future Implications
Throughout 2025, Trump's repeated calls for the US to take over Greenland triggered strong objections not only from Denmark and Greenland itself but also from the European Union. The latest remarks, coupled with the aggressive action in Venezuela, suggest a continued and potentially escalating pattern of foreign policy that prioritizes unilateral strategic acquisitions.
The situation places the long-standing alliance between the US and Denmark under severe strain. It also raises significant questions about the future of international norms concerning sovereignty and intervention, as the world reacts to the events in Venezuela and the renewed pressure on Greenland.
