Overview
- President Donald Trump told media he expects U.S. sovereignty over land hosting American installations in Greenland, citing a Davos preagreement with NATO chief Mark Rutte, as reports also point to a planned update of the 1951 U.S.-Denmark defense pact.
- Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Greenland’s leader Jens-Frederik Nielsen met in Nuuk, labeled the situation grave, and committed to a joint diplomatic path with Copenhagen.
- Public opposition in Greenland remains overwhelming, with prior polling showing about 85% against becoming U.S. territory, large rallies in Nuuk, and a new government preparedness booklet advising residents on five days of supplies and lawful arms.
- European partners warn trust has been damaged, with analysis predicting a diminished NATO role, while parts of Europe’s far right break with MAGA over sovereignty concerns and trade threats, even as leaders on the EU’s eastern flank avoid direct criticism.
- The United States announced new Treasury sanctions on companies and tankers tied to Iran’s so‑called ghost fleet, and separate reports alleging a U.S. seizure of Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro were published but remain disputed.