U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States would not use military force to acquire Greenland and instead wants negotiations on a possible transfer of control, repeating claims about American security responsibilities during a speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
Speaking to a global audience of political and business leaders, Trump argued control of Greenland serves U.S. security interests alone. He rejected suggestions tied to natural resources, saying minerals played no role in American interest in the Arctic territory.
“The reason the U.S. needs to take control of Greenland is purely for security,” Trump said, adding the United States stands as the only power capable of defending the vast and strategically located island.
Greenland remains a semiautonomous territory under Danish sovereignty. Trump’s remarks followed days of rising tension between Washington and European leaders, with Greenland emerging as a sensitive flashpoint at the annual Swiss gathering.
Trump opened his address with criticism aimed squarely at Europe. He said the continent was moving in the wrong direction and claimed “certain places in Europe are not recognizable,” remarks drawing quiet reaction from delegates inside the hall.
He also targeted European energy policies, arguing regional decisions weakened economic stability and security. Trump did not name specific countries, though comments reflected broader criticism previously aimed at European climate and energy strategies.
Turning to domestic issues, Trump highlighted what he described as dramatic economic gains in the United States. He told the Davos audience the American economy stood in the middle of the “most dramatic economic turnaround in history.”
Trump linked economic strength with national security, framing American growth as proof of leadership and stability during a period of global uncertainty.
Financial markets showed muted but noticeable movement as Trump spoke. U.S. stock futures edged higher during the address, suggesting cautious investor optimism. Gold prices continued a rally, reflecting ongoing demand for safe assets amid geopolitical strain.
Behind closed doors, the Greenland issue triggered tense exchanges between U.S. and European officials attending the forum. Danish representatives have previously rejected any sale of the territory, while European leaders expressed concern over Washington’s approach.
Trump’s Davos appearance reinforced a familiar theme, direct language, strong national framing, and an emphasis on security over diplomacy. The Greenland question remains unresolved, though the president’s remarks signaled negotiation rather than confrontation as the chosen path forward.
