Global Security Briefing Can the Transatlantic Alliance Survive the Trump Presidency?
Jan 21, 2026
In this engaging discussion, Sir David Lidington, a former UK Member of Parliament and RUSI Distinguished Fellow, dives into the complexities of transatlantic relations under President Trump. He explores the implications of US interests in Greenland and the nuances of sovereignty. Lidington assesses Europe's capacity to respond to rising Russian threats and critiqued the slow pace of UK defense reforms. He also advocates for a new European security architecture that balances cooperation and independence, urging urgent action from European leaders.
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Greenland's Strategic Reality
- Greenland's strategic value rises as Arctic ice retreats and access to the North Atlantic increases.
- David Lidington says existing treaties already allow the US to expand its military presence without seizing sovereignty.
Shared Sovereignty Is Not A Trump Fit
- Shared-sovereignty solutions are unlikely to satisfy Donald Trump if he seeks outright control.
- Lidington stresses Greenlanders' self-determination and current polling against US annexation.
Decade To Reduce US Dependence
- Europe still depends heavily on US capabilities and will take a decade to substitute them.
- Lidington argues Europeans should prepare to defend themselves if US support wanes under Trump or future nationalist trends.