The Reason Roundtable

Is America Really Going to War for Greenland?

34 snips
Jan 21, 2026
Kat Rosenfield, a novelist and political commentator, joins Reem Ibrahim, media head at the Institute of Economic Affairs, to discuss the bizarre U.S. tensions over Greenland. They delve into Trump's brash threats of military action and the implications for NATO. The conversation shifts to civil liberties as Minneapolis faces scrutiny over federal agents' aggressive tactics post-Renee Good’s killing. Finally, they tackle Trump's vague healthcare plan and its political ramifications, exploring what it means for American domestic policy.
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INSIGHT

Greenland Threats Are More Than Jokes

  • Donald Trump's Greenland comments risk real diplomatic and military consequences despite sounding like rhetoric.
  • Matt Welch warns Congress should act to prevent executive overreach before threats escalate.
INSIGHT

Europe Sees Symbolic Aggression, Not Need

  • Europe views the Greenland episode as an unprecedented breach of norms and a diplomatic shock.
  • Reem Ibrahim notes the U.S. already has broad military access to Greenland, so the demand is symbolic and damaging.
INSIGHT

Greenland Drama Weakens NATO Unity

  • Trump's actions risk splintering NATO and play into Russian advantage by weakening Western unity.
  • Matt Welch urges Europeans to assume more responsibility for their own security instead of relying on U.S. leadership.
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