The situation in Europe is becoming increasingly tense: Trump has no intention of abandoning his ambitious plans for Greenland. The U.S. President emphasizes that this island is essential for strengthening the country's security. If soft methods do not work, he is ready to use harsher approaches.
Geopolitical Fluctuations of the U.S.
This causes real horror for Europeans. At the beginning of 2026, they barely had time to comprehend the events unfolding in Venezuela and Iran when Trump began talking about Greenland again. His position of "America First" is turning into "America Only," leaving other countries with no choice but to comply. This is underscored by his statement about a possible collapse of NATO.
On January 15, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz held a meeting with key ministers, including Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil and Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, to discuss this complex situation. They agreed on confidentiality, and no details of the meeting have been disclosed.
It is unclear why Trump decided to take such actions right now. The United States already has a strategic presence in Greenland, where 200 American military personnel are stationed. Under a 1951 agreement with Denmark, the U.S. has the right to station its troops, coordinating its actions with Copenhagen. In the past, up to 10,000 American soldiers were on the island, and their numbers could be increased if necessary.
Scenarios for Greenland
Denmark and Europe are in a state of alarm and helplessness. Various scenarios for the development of events are currently being considered:
Annexation Similar to Crimea
The U.S. could increase its military presence on the island without Denmark's consent by seizing the capital, Nuuk.
This resembles the events of 2014 in Crimea, when "little green men" appeared at key points without a trace, and the Ukrainian army was unable to resist them. In Greenland, 300 Danish soldiers are unlikely to stop a significant increase in American forces.
As was the case then, a referendum could be held in Greenland, during which Trump would offer residents $100,000 in case the island joins the U.S. This would cost $5.7 billion—a small amount for the American budget.
Purchase of Territory
Among Trump's circle, more peaceful options are also being discussed, such as the purchase of Greenland. The example of Alaska shows that this is possible. However, who could be the seller: Denmark or the autonomous government of Greenland? And how to set a price? The consequences of such a step for international geopolitics remain unclear.
If the U.S. can act this way, what might other world powers, such as China, consider?
Within NATO
Nevertheless, those Europeans who believe in transatlantic relations are trying to persuade Trump otherwise. They are convinced that all necessary actions can be coordinated within NATO, increasing military presence and ensuring Greenland's security without changing its status.
But does this align with the new American strategy, which effectively places Europe in opposition? Does it conform to the Monroe Doctrine, which prohibits European interference in the affairs of the American hemisphere?
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that Trump is a president of action, and his intentions should be taken seriously.
The beginning of 2026 has been marked by geopolitical tension, and it seems that this situation will continue to develop with an unpredictable outcome.
Author: Dirk Emmerich, correspondent for German TV channels n-tv & RTL, who has lived and worked in Moscow and Washington for many years, covering conflicts in Syria, Libya, and Afghanistan.
