GD POLITICS How Denmark Sees Trump’s Greenland Threats
Jan 8, 2026
Peter Viggo Jakobsen, a Professor of Strategy and War Studies at the Royal Danish Defence College, discusses the bizarre interest in Greenland from the U.S. government. He explains the historical context of Danish sovereignty over the island and why military annexation would make little sense for the U.S. He delves into the political responses from Denmark and Greenland, highlighting the strong rejection of any takeover attempts. Jakobsen also addresses the strategic implications of Greenland's mineral wealth versus economic realities and the broader geopolitical tensions at play.
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US Threat If NATO Collapses
- Peter Viggo Jakobsen argues the United States poses a greater immediate threat than Russia if it undermines NATO.
- Breaking NATO would leave Denmark exposed and hasten Russian danger, he warns.
US Already Controls Greenland Militarily
- Jakobsen notes the U.S. already has long-standing military control arrangements in Greenland dating to WWII.
- He finds it odd to seek annexation of territory the U.S. effectively controls militarily.
Annexation Adds Costs, Few Benefits
- Jakobsen emphasizes Denmark bears the welfare and administrative costs for Greenland today.
- He argues U.S. annexation would force the U.S. to take on those costs with little clear benefit.
