KQED's Forum Could Greenland Become the 51st State?
Jan 22, 2026
Eliot Cohen, a strategy expert and commentator, and Susan Glasser, a seasoned political journalist, join Jeffrey Gettleman, a global correspondent for The New York Times, to dissect Trump's controversial interest in acquiring Greenland. They explore Trump's longstanding fixation and the geopolitical implications of such a move. Cohen analyzes the strategic value of Greenland, while Glasser discusses the political motives behind Trump's actions. Meanwhile, Gettleman sheds light on local sentiments and historical ties to Denmark, revealing the complexities of this potential acquisition.
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Greenland Crisis Triggered A Diplomatic Off-Ramp
- Trump's Greenland push created a major transatlantic diplomatic crisis with Denmark and NATO scrambling for a solution.
- The likely compromise is sovereign U.S. control over bases rather than transfer of full territorial sovereignty.
Reputational Damage, But Likely A 'Nothing Burger'
- Eliot Cohen argues Trump's moves inflicted real reputational damage on U.S.-Europe relations.
- He predicts the episode will mostly simmer down but leave lasting strain on alliances.
Historical U.S. Footprint In Greenland
- The U.S. has long-standing base rights in Greenland dating back to World War II and formal agreements from the 1950s.
- Jeffrey Gettleman explains those agreements already grant the U.S. broad jurisdiction over bases and defense in Greenland.
