The Lead with Jake Tapper Trump Escalates Push To Acquire Greenland
Jan 20, 2026
President Trump's peculiar link between not winning the Nobel Peace Prize and his Greenland ambitions stirs controversy. European leaders express alarm ahead of crucial Davos meetings, contemplating potential retaliation. Meanwhile, Greenland's response and Denmark's military moves reveal underlying tensions. Discussions deepen around the region's strategic significance and U.S. national security concerns. As GOP members debate the implications of a military approach, local perspectives on Trump's strategies add to the nation's political discourse.
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Nobel Snub Tied To Greenland Push
- President Trump linked not winning the Nobel Peace Prize to abandoning a sole focus on peace in pursuing Greenland.
- He framed Greenland as vital to U.S. security and suggested control is needed to keep the world secure.
Tariffs As Pressure Tactic
- The White House threatened tariffs on several European NATO allies to pressure Denmark over Greenland.
- European leaders warn that such trade actions could provoke severe retaliation and damage U.S.-EU relations.
Greenlanders' Clear Rejection
- Nick Robertson reported Greenlanders saying "hands off Greenland" and asserting they don't want to join the United States.
- He observed increased Danish troop presence and Arctic training meant to demonstrate Denmark can provide security.