Trump Declares US Must Take Control of Greenland to Block Russia, China

Washington, January 10, 2026: US President Donald Trump has stated unequivocally that the United States must gain control over Greenland to prevent Russia and China from asserting influence over the strategically located Arctic territory. This marks Trump’s latest and most direct statement on the contentious issue of Greenland, which he has repeatedly suggested the US should acquire.

Speaking to the BBC on Friday, Trump said, “Any country must protect its rights, and we cannot rely on lease agreements for security. We must take control of Greenland to defend it because Russia and China are watching. For our defense, Greenland needs to be under US control.”

Military Option on the Table

The White House has indicated that the administration is considering options to acquire Greenland from Denmark, including a significant financial offer. While Denmark and Greenland have consistently rejected the idea of a sale, the option of a military intervention has not been entirely ruled out. Trump has stressed that Greenland’s control is critical to US national security.

Denmark’s Firm Response

Both Denmark and Greenland have firmly opposed US attempts to acquire the territory. The Danish government has warned that any military action could jeopardize the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), raising the possibility of conflict between alliance members.

Why Greenland Matters

Greenland is strategically located between North America and the Arctic. While it has a degree of autonomous governance, its foreign policy and defense are under Denmark’s control. The island is crucial for early warning systems against missile attacks and for monitoring naval activity. Trump has repeatedly highlighted the presence of Russian and Chinese ships in the region, arguing that full US control is essential, despite the US maintaining a military base in Greenland for over 75 years.