Former US President Donald Trump has dramatically escalated a long-running diplomatic row by refusing to rule out using American military force to seize control of Greenland.
'No Comment' on Military Action
In an interview with NBC News on Monday 19 January 2026, Trump was directly asked if he would authorise the US military to take the vast Arctic island. His stark reply was a simple "no comment." This marked a significant hardening of rhetoric in his persistent campaign to acquire the Danish territory.
The president has for months sought to increase US control over Greenland, citing its strategic position and rich resources. However, in recent weeks, his administration has ramped up pressure on Denmark and other NATO allies to agree to a deal. Over the weekend, he threatened to impose a 10 percent tariff on Denmark and other European nations unless they supported the US takeover.
Starmer Dismisses Threat as Not 'Genuine'
Reacting to the growing tension, UK Prime Minister Kier Starmer insisted he did not believe Trump's threats of military action were serious. Starmer urged for the dispute to be settled through "calm discussion between allies," highlighting the potential damage to transatlantic relations.
Denmark has consistently and firmly rejected all approaches from the Trump administration regarding Greenland, which it has governed for more than two centuries. Every attempt by the president to convince Danish and Greenlandic leaders to hand over the territory has so far proven futile.
The Strategic Prize in the Arctic
Trump's fixation on Greenland is driven by its considerable geopolitical and economic value. The island's location between Russia, Europe, and North America makes it a key asset for national security, according to the former president.
Furthermore, as polar ice caps melt, control over Arctic shipping routes becomes increasingly lucrative. Greenland is also believed to be rich in natural minerals and resources that are not readily available within the United States, adding to its perceived worth.
This latest "no comment" from Trump represents the most serious escalation yet in the unconventional diplomatic standoff, raising questions about the future of US relations with its European allies and the stability of the Arctic region.
