Defense & Aerospace Report DEFAERO Strategy Series [Jan 21, 26] Richard Fontaine on Trump Admin's Drive to Aquire Greenland
Jan 21, 2026
In this discussion, Richard Fontaine, President and CEO of the Center for a New American Security, dives into the complexities of U.S. military strategy and foreign policy. He argues against the necessity of purchasing Greenland, emphasizing existing agreements for security access. Fontaine critiques NATO's challenges and warns against coercion that could alienate allies. He highlights the slow road to European self-reliance in defense and the strategic pitfalls of courting Russia against China. This conversation is a deep dive into contemporary geopolitical tensions and alliances.
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Greenland Ownership Not Required
- The United States doesn't need to own Greenland to secure military or economic access because the 1951 security agreement already grants broad rights.
- Richard Fontaine argues buying or seizing Greenland is unnecessary and politically damaging.
Allies Have Shared The Burden
- Denmark has actively supported U.S. operations and suffered casualties fighting with America in Afghanistan.
- Fontaine says the notion the U.S. 'paid for' European territory is counterfactual and insulting to allies like Denmark.
NATO's Strategic Value Is Unique
- NATO remains the most successful deterrent alliance and abandoning it would reward Russia and China.
- Fontaine warns sacrificing the alliance for short-term gains would be dangerous and counterproductive.