Overview
- The topic resurfaced in late 2025 and early 2026, with U.S. officials saying “all options” were being considered, but as of January 8 no formal move to acquire the island has been made.
- Several NATO allies voiced strong support for Denmark’s sovereignty after Washington’s renewed attention to Greenland.
- Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark with about 56,000 residents, mostly Inuit, while Copenhagen retains control over defense, foreign policy and monetary policy.
- The U.S.-run Pituffik Space Base is a cornerstone of missile warning and space surveillance, underscoring the island’s position near vital North Atlantic routes and the GIUK Gap.
- Melting sea ice is opening potential Arctic shipping corridors and exposing significant mineral prospects, including the Kvanefjeld rare‑earth deposit, as Russia expands Arctic forces and China deepens regional engagement.