Overview
- Rep. Randy Fine introduced legislation on Jan. 12 authorizing the president to take steps to acquire Greenland and to advance its incorporation, while leaving any statehood decision to Congress.
- Trump’s renewed push frames control of Greenland as essential for Arctic security, citing strategic location near Russia, access to shipping lanes, and critical minerals, with warnings about China also referenced.
- Leaders in Denmark and Greenland reject any transfer of sovereignty, and European officials warn that a military takeover would fracture alliances, with one EU defense official calling it the end of NATO.
- Tensions rose after Trump said the U.S. would act on Greenland “whether they like it or not,” and the White House declined to rule out force, though Fine says he favors a voluntary path.
- Rubio is set to meet Danish officials in Washington on Jan. 14 to address Greenland-related issues.