Former Vice President Mike Pence has publicly broken with Donald Trump over the president's controversial campaign to acquire Greenland, joining a growing chorus of Republican dissent. Pence warned that Trump's aggressive tactics, including threats of military force and unilateral tariffs against NATO allies, risk causing severe damage to critical international alliances.
Republican Rift Widens Over Arctic Ambitions
In an interview with CNN's Jake Tapper on Sunday, 18 January 2026, Mike Pence voiced significant concerns about the administration's approach. He specifically questioned the use of "questionable constitutional authority" to impose tariffs on allies and referenced earlier threats of a military invasion of the Danish territory. While Pence stated he supports the broader strategic goal of securing Greenland for US national security, he firmly rejected Trump's methods.
"The current posture could fracture not only our relationship with Denmark but with all of our NATO allies," Pence cautioned, echoing warnings from other senior GOP figures. His comments underscore a notable split within the party as Trump intensifies efforts to incorporate the Arctic island, home to roughly 57,000 people, into the United States.
European Backlash and Tariff Threats
The White House's push has triggered a formidable transatlantic backlash. Following what European officials called an "unproductive" summit this week, Trump announced plans to levy a 10 percent tariff on Denmark and other European nations, payable until a deal for the "Complete and Total purchase of Greenland" is reached.
In response, eight European nations, including the UK, France, and Denmark, issued a joint statement on Sunday condemning the levies. They argued the moves "undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral." French President Emmanuel Macron appeared to compare the situation to the war in Ukraine, stating on X that "no intimidation or threat will influence us — neither in Ukraine, nor in Greenland."
GOP Critics Warn of Strategic 'Self-Harm'
High-profile Republicans beyond Pence have issued stark warnings. Rep. Michael McCaul, former chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, suggested a military invasion would "press a war with NATO itself" and end up "abolishing NATO as we know it." Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell called potential military action "an unprecedented act of strategic self-harm" that could "incinerate" NATO alliances.
Despite the criticism, Trump retains some party support. Texas Senator Ted Cruz commended the president for being "single-mindedly focused on America first," framing the acquisition as part of America's historical expansion. However, polls indicate limited public appetite, with a recent Ipsos survey showing only 17 percent of Americans support the plan. In Greenland itself, a Berlingske poll found a mere 6 percent in favour of joining the US, with protests asserting the island is "not for sale."
