WSJ What’s News Would Denmark Ever Sell Greenland?
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Jan 7, 2026 Daniel Michaels, the Brussels bureau chief for The Wall Street Journal, dives into the intriguing notion of the U.S. potentially buying Greenland. He explores the geopolitical motivations behind President Trump’s rhetoric toward Denmark and whether a deal is feasible. Discussions also touch on the diplomatic strains with Denmark and local resistance to any sale. Additionally, Trump’s claims about Venezuela's oil reserves are dissected, tying into wider implications for U.S. energy strategy.
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Greenland As Strategic Security Lever
- The U.S. frames Greenland as central to Arctic national security given Russia and China's missile trajectories.
- Dan Michaels says muscular U.S. rhetoric is partly a negotiating tactic to pressure Denmark.
Rhetoric Served As Negotiation Pressure
- The Trump administration may be using threats to force Denmark into talks about selling Greenland.
- Dan Michaels explains officials prefer owning or striking a compact rather than invading.
Compact Of Free Association Is A Possible Path
- A possible path is a U.S.–Greenland compact of free association rather than outright purchase.
- Denmark and most Greenlanders show little openness so far, making any deal uncertain.