In a striking geopolitical development, the Kremlin has formally stated that it considers Greenland to be part of Denmark. This declaration comes as former US President Donald Trump renews his threats to acquire the vast Arctic territory, creating a significant rift within the NATO alliance.
Moscow's Stance Amid Trump's Persistent Ambitions
Presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov described the situation as “extraordinary” from the perspective of international law. This assertion is notable given Moscow's own record, having been repeatedly accused of breaching that same law with its full-scale invasion of Ukraine four years ago. Peskov added a pointed remark regarding the US position, noting, “On the other hand, given that President Trump is in Washington ... he himself has said that international law is not a priority for him.”
The controversy escalated on Friday, 16 January 2026, when Trump threatened to impose new tariffs on allies who oppose his plans for Greenland. This followed a show of solidarity from European nations, who dispatched a small contingent of troops to the territory at Denmark's request.
A "Fundamental Disagreement" and Military Posturing
Denmark’s foreign minister emerged from a summit at the White House this week stating a “fundamental disagreement” remains over the island's status. The Trump administration argues Greenland is crucial to Arctic security and claims Denmark has not done enough to protect it. Trump has not ruled out using force to take control, while Copenhagen maintains it is unequivocally not for sale.
White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt downplayed the European troop deployment. “I don't think troops in Europe impact the president's decision-making process, nor does it impact his goal of the acquisition of Greenland at all,” she stated.
Domestic and International Repercussions
Trump's special envoy to Greenland, Jeff Landry, told Fox News he plans to visit the territory in March and believes a deal is possible. “I do believe that there's a deal that should and will be made once this plays out,” Landry said, affirming the president's seriousness.
However, the aggressive rhetoric is causing alarm. New Hampshire Senator Jeanne Shaheen, a Democrat on the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, warned it undermines NATO and benefits adversaries like Russia and China. “I know there are real, deep concerns here in Denmark and in Greenland. These concerns are understandable when trust is shaken. But I believe saner heads will prevail,” she said, expressing hope in bipartisan Congressional support for NATO and the US-Danish relationship.
In response to the growing tension, cabinet ministers from Denmark and Greenland met on Friday to discuss the island's preparedness. Trump first floated the idea of purchasing Greenland in 2019 during his first term and continues to face opposition in Washington, including from members of his own party.
