High-stakes diplomatic talks are scheduled between the United States and Denmark following former President Donald Trump's renewed and explicit threat to seize control of Greenland before the end of his term in 2026.
Rubio to Lead Crisis Talks with Denmark
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed to reporters that he will meet with representatives from Denmark next week. This urgent diplomatic engagement comes directly in response to the White House's confirmation of Trump's ambition to "take over" the vast Arctic territory, which is an autonomous constituent country within the Kingdom of Denmark.
The administration's position was laid bare by Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. She stated that while President Trump would prefer to purchase Greenland from Denmark, he is prepared to authorise military action if Copenhagen refuses to sell. "Utilising the US military is always an option at the commander in chief's disposal," Leavitt asserted, framing the acquisition as a vital national security priority to deter adversaries in the strategically crucial Arctic region.
Trump's Threats and NATO Fallout
The escalating situation has triggered a severe transatlantic rift, with Denmark warning that an attempted takeover of its territory could lead to the collapse of the NATO alliance. In response to European criticism, Trump launched a defensive broadside on his Truth Social platform.
He suggested NATO "won’t be there for us" if needed, a claim that overlooks the historic fact that the alliance's collective defence clause was invoked only once—to support the US after the September 11, 2001 attacks. In his post, Trump also complained about Norway not awarding him a Nobel prize and claimed that without American involvement, rivals like China and Russia would have "ZERO FEAR OF NATO." He concluded by paradoxically insisting, "We will always be there for NATO, even if they won’t be there for us."
A Diplomatic and Strategic Crisis Unfolds
The planned meeting between Secretary Rubio and Danish officials, set for the week beginning 12th January 2026, now represents a critical juncture for Arctic geopolitics and Western unity. The Trump administration's blunt ultimatum—a voluntary sale or a forced seizure—has placed an unprecedented strain on relations with a key NATO ally.
Public opposition in Greenland itself is already evident, with protests reported against Trump's threats. The outcome of next week's talks will be closely watched by global capitals, as it will signal whether a diplomatic resolution is possible or if the US is set on a collision course that threatens the very foundation of the post-war Atlantic alliance.
