In a bold declaration at the opening of the World Economic Forum on January 20, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump said there was 'no going back' on his goal of bringing Greenland under American control. The remark came with an unflinching refusal to rule out force—a stance that has left NATO allies and European leaders scrambling for a response.
Trump’s ambition to claim sovereignty over the strategically placed Arctic island stems from its critical role in global security and emerging shipping routes. 'Greenland is imperative for National and World Security,' he wrote on Truth Social after a call with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, adding, 'There can be no going back—on that, everyone agrees!'
European Union leaders quickly rejected the looming power play. In a coordinated response, the EU emphasized that international relations cannot be governed by the 'law of the strongest,' underscoring respect for sovereignty and legal frameworks.
Markets and companies, still wary from last year’s U.S.-EU trade tensions, saw a fresh wave of uncertainty. Investors reacted cautiously as officials debated whether Greenland’s abundant potential and new Arctic sea lanes could tip the balance of economic and strategic interests.
On the sidelines of Davos, Trump sought to reassure partners. He told reporters, 'We will work something out where NATO is going to be very happy and where we’re going to be very happy,' before teasing, 'You’ll find out,' when asked how far he might go to secure Greenland.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent downplayed fears of a renewed trade war, calling the alarm over Greenland 'hysteria.' Meanwhile, ministers and CEOs in Switzerland are watching closely, hoping that diplomacy will prevail and preserve the transatlantic alliance that has underpinned Western security for decades.
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Trump vows 'no going back' on Greenland, EU rejects 'law of strongest'
cgtn.com
