Trump Declares “No Force” on Greenland But Warns Europe to Remember US Demands

Donald Trump intensified his push to acquire Greenland during a lengthy address at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, though he explicitly ruled out military action. Speaking to thousands of global business and political leaders, the US president emphasized that America seeks “immediate negotiations” to discuss purchasing the semi-autonomous Danish territory, framing it as essential for national security rather than territorial expansion.
The president’s remarks came amid growing tensions with European allies over his Greenland ambitions. Trump warned that while he wouldn’t use force, countries should remember their response to his request. “All the US is asking for is a place called Greenland,” he stated. “You can say yes, and we will be very appreciative. Or you can say no and we will remember.” This thinly veiled threat underscored his willingness to leverage American economic and diplomatic power against European nations.
Denmark’s foreign minister responded cautiously to Trump’s pledge against military intervention, calling it “positive” but noting that “the problem” hasn’t disappeared. Lars Løkke Rasmussen emphasized that Trump’s fundamental ambitions for Greenland remain unchanged despite his assurances about avoiding force. Norwegian officials, including former NATO secretary general Jens Stoltenberg, expressed relief that Trump ruled out military action, acknowledging widespread fears about potential armed conflict over the territory.
In a dramatic reversal later that day, Trump announced he would delay imposing 10% tariffs on eight European countries—Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Finland—that were scheduled for February 1st. The president claimed to have reached a “framework of a future deal” with NATO secretary general Mark Rutte concerning Greenland and the broader Arctic region, though details remained scarce and Rutte declined to comment when contacted by reporters.
During his 80-minute speech, Trump repeatedly criticized European defense spending, questioned whether NATO allies would defend America, and promoted his vision for a missile defense system called Golden Dome that would require US ownership of Greenland. He also delivered nationalist rhetoric about migration and energy policy, attacked various political figures including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and made controversial claims about recent US military operations in Venezuela.