After Warning the U.S. Will Act, Trump Orders Military to Draft Greenland Plan

Reports that Donald Trump has asked senior military officials to examine contingency plans involving Greenland have drawn intense attention to his long-standing interest in the Arctic island. Although no formal directive has been confirmed, people familiar with internal talks say he requested evaluations of multiple scenarios, including military options, alarming officials in Washington and allied capitals.

For years, Trump has highlighted Greenland’s strategic importance, previously suggesting the U.S. should acquire it. His recent remarks were more forceful, implying American action could be necessary and that U.S. security interests would outweigh objections from partners. Those statements quickly rippled through diplomatic circles.

Denmark, which oversees Greenland’s defense and foreign affairs, reacted with concern. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned that threatening a NATO ally risks weakening the alliance itself. Danish leaders reiterated that Greenland is not for sale and that such rhetoric challenges international norms.

Efforts are now underway to ease tensions. Denmark’s foreign minister and Greenlandic officials are expected to meet U.S. counterparts, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, to reaffirm dialogue and prevent further escalation.

Trump has denied making a formal purchase offer but continues to argue that Greenland’s location leaves it exposed to Russian and Chinese influence. He frames potential U.S. involvement as a defensive move, casting the island as a strategic asset in great-power rivalry.

Inside the U.S. government, the reported discussions have sparked resistance. Military, legal, and congressional figures have raised doubts about legality, feasibility, and the need for authorization.

Analysts caution that even hypothetical military talk could destabilize the Arctic, strain NATO unity, and damage U.S. credibility. What began as an unconventional idea has become a diplomatic flashpoint with real global consequences.