“Not Ruling Out Military Force”
Trump stated he had not ruled out military force to acquire Greenland. He threatened 10% tariffs on Denmark, rising to 25%, unless Denmark agreed to sell. He told the Pentagon to develop intervention plans for the Panama Canal after claiming in his inaugural address that “China is operating” it.
85% of Greenlanders oppose becoming American. 8 European leaders warned of “a dangerous downward spiral.” Panama’s president called the threats “an affront to our dignity as a nation.”
Denmark responded with “Greenland is not for sale” and committed additional military funds for Arctic ships, drones, and fighter jets. Sweden sent military officers for joint exercise “Operation Arctic Endurance.” Eight European leaders issued a joint statement warning the tariffs “undermine transatlantic relations.”
85% Said No
A Verian Group poll found 85% of Greenlanders oppose joining the United States. Six percent were in favor. All parties in the Parliament of Greenland issued a joint statement demanding U.S. respect and rejecting annexation.
Panama’s President Mulino responded to the Canal threats by stating sovereignty is “not negotiable.” The Federal Maritime Commission threatened “substantial daily fines” on Panama. Panama conceded on the China question by withdrawing from the Belt and Road Initiative and launching an audit of a China-linked terminal operator.
Trump reversed course at Davos on January 21, 2026, pledging not to use force or tariffs to annex Greenland. The damage to alliance credibility was already done.