President Donald Trump used a high-profile appearance at the World Economic Forum in Davos to intensify his long-running push for U.S. ownership of Greenland, framing the issue as a matter of global security while insisting that force would not be used.
Speaking before business and political leaders in Switzerland, Trump described Greenland as part of North America and said Washington was seeking immediate negotiations with Denmark over the Arctic territory.
He argued that the United States alone was capable of defending what he repeatedly called an unsecured island and suggested that existing arrangements were insufficient.
Trump sought to downplay concerns about escalation even as his remarks fueled unease among European allies already strained by trade and security disputes.
In his speech, Trump said, "I don't want to use force. I won't use force," rejecting speculation that the United States would attempt a military takeover.
He portrayed the proposed acquisition as a limited request, referring to Greenland as a "piece of ice" needed for broader world protection.
Trump maintained that ownership, rather than a lease or licensing arrangement, was essential for defense, arguing that no other nation or group of nations could secure the territory.
He also said transferring Greenland to U.S. control would not threaten NATO, praising the alliance’s leadership while reiterating complaints that Washington bears an unfair share of the bloc’s costs.
The comments came amid warnings from NATO figures that the strategy could destabilize the alliance, even as Denmark and Greenland have offered expanded cooperation short of a transfer of sovereignty.
Trump’s Greenland remarks dominated discussions in Davos, where broader concerns about U.S. pressure on allies were already in focus.
Over the weekend, he threatened punitive tariffs on several European countries accused of obstructing his Greenland initiative, adding to transatlantic tensions.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney warned that mid-sized nations must unite against U.S. coercion, prompting a sharp rebuttal from Trump during his address.
Trump said Canada benefited disproportionately from its relationship with the United States, underscoring how the Greenland dispute has widened into a broader confrontation with allies.
The episode has reinforced perceptions of a more confrontational U.S. posture as Trump seeks to redefine security and economic ties with partners.