Today in Focus Why did Trump chicken out on Greenland? – The Latest
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Jan 22, 2026 Jon Henley, a Europe correspondent, offers keen insights into the recent political tug-of-war surrounding Trump's Greenland threats. He discusses how Trump backed down from both military action and tariffs against European nations after talks with NATO. The conversation dives into America’s interest in establishing a military foothold in Greenland, as well as the implications of renegotiating the 1951 US-Denmark agreement. The dynamics of European responses are also explored, highlighting a newfound assertiveness in transatlantic relations.
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Framework Agreed To Expand US Presence
- The US agreed a “framework of a future deal” to expand its military presence in Greenland using a renegotiated 1951 bilateral agreement with Denmark.
- The deal would let the US install bases, deploy troops and missile-defence systems on Greenland under NATO cooperation.
Trump Backed Off Force And Tariffs
- Donald Trump publicly ruled out using force to take Greenland but said he could have used it, then dropped a tariff threat after talks with NATO's Mark Rutte.
- The withdrawal of threats followed private mediation and a Davos meeting, giving Trump a public off-ramp while preserving US aims.
Rutte's Private Mediation With Trump
- NATO secretary-general Mark Rutte played a conciliatory role, using flattery and private mediation to negotiate with Trump.
- His ‘Trump-whisperer’ approach provided the off-ramp that helped secure the framework deal.