Former US President Donald Trump's renewed push to acquire Greenland, framed as a choice between the "nice way or the difficult way," has jolted European capitals into action. This move revives a century-old American ambition with a distinctly aggressive tone, forcing Europe to prepare a unified counter-strategy that mixes military deterrence with financial incentives.
Europe's Dual Strategy: Troops and Treasure
Alarmed by Trump's rhetoric, European nations are not dismissing his threats as mere bluster. US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt recently pointed to Venezuela and Iran as examples of Washington's willingness to take a hard line, stating, "Look at Venezuela... 'I will use the United States military if you do not take such a deal and you will not like it.'" This "aggressive mode" has been recognized in European diplomatic circles. An EU diplomat told Politico, "We must be ready for a direct confrontation with Trump. He is in an aggressive mode, and we need to be geared up."
In response, France and Germany are spearheading efforts with allies. While believing a full US military seizure of Greenland is unlikely, Europe is actively considering increasing NATO's presence on the island. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot emphasized coordinated action, stating work is underway to prepare a response with European partners. Simultaneously, Germany's foreign policy leadership is drafting plans for European deterrence should the US attempt an attack, alongside bolstering NATO forces near Greenland.
The financial front is equally critical. Brussels and Copenhagen aim to secure Greenland's future within the European sphere. The EU plans to nearly double its spending on Greenland to €530 million over seven years starting in 2028. This package, alongside Danish support, is designed to address Greenland's economic frustrations—like poverty and lagging infrastructure—and preempt any American allure. As pro-independence MP Kuno Fencker noted, Greenland's resources often profit Danish companies more than locals.
Greenland's Geopolitical Prize and Sovereign Stance
Trump's interest is deeply strategic. He has publicly stated, "We're not going to have Russia or China occupy Greenland. That's what they're going to do if we don't." The island's location is paramount: it spans about 836,000 square miles and sits astride the GIUK gap, the vital maritime corridor linking the Arctic and Atlantic. Its substantial reserves of oil, gas, and rare earth minerals add to its value.
However, Greenland's political parties have united in rejecting foreign control. Leaders of five parties in Greenland's parliament declared in a joint statement, "We don't want to be Americans, we don't want to be Danish, we want to be Greenlanders... The future of Greenland must be decided by Greenlanders." The island, a Danish colony until 1953, now has home rule, and while independence is debated, the appetite for a rapid break or a sale is limited.
The Path Forward: Diplomacy or Confrontation?
The immediate crisis may hinge on talks. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to meet with Danish officials next week. The quickest resolution may be a negotiated outcome allowing Trump to claim a political win while Denmark and Greenland preserve sovereignty. Europe's signal is clear: it will pay to secure Greenland's future but will not sell it. The continent is now testing whether a combination of military preparedness and economic investment can counter Trump's "difficult way" and uphold the status quo in the strategically vital Arctic.
