The Global Story Will Trump take control of Greenland?
Jan 8, 2026
Adrienne Murray, a BBC reporter specializing in Denmark and Greenland, provides an insightful look into the geopolitical tension surrounding President Trump's controversial remarks about Greenland. She highlights the island's unique autonomous status and the reactions from both Danish and Greenlandic leaders. Topics include the potential implications for NATO, Greenland's economic assets, and the historical context of U.S. interest in the region. Murray also discusses local sentiments towards Trump's ambitions and the broader implications for European politics.
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Greenland's Size, Population And Autonomy
- Greenland is the world's largest island with ~57,000 people, mostly Inuit, and an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.
- Denmark retains foreign policy and defense while Greenland handles much domestic governance.
Trump's On-Plane Comments And Provocative Post
- On Air Force One, President Trump said "We need Greenland from a national security situation" and claimed China and Russia presence there.
- A provocative social post showing Greenland with a US flag and the word "soon" heightened tensions.
Denmark's NATO Warning
- Danish PM Mette Frederiksen warned that a US attack on a NATO member would threaten the alliance and post-war security.
- Her statement framed a US move on Greenland as potentially ending NATO's mutual-defence credibility.